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value

by Mikew

[ 1 ]

Mikew

01:46 PM   31-May-23

hi everyone were thnkig of selling our 2013 Dakota, leather seats 200l fresh/waste 62000km all set to go

any ideas onthe price we should ask thanks mike

Fixing the Email Problem

by Chris Gaelic

[ 4 ]

Chris Gaelic

02:02 PM   29-Sep-20

We've had a problem with member not receiving email notifications when a new comment is added to a Subject that they have subscribed to. This turned out to be somewhat challenging to fix, but I'm hoping all is now working correctly. If you have received this email, then it is.

 

Cheers,

Chris

Les

05:23 PM   29-Sep-20

Tuakau

Received Les

Thankyou Chris

Papabear

05:12 PM   26-Mar-22

Christchurch

Howdy Chris

 

As a newby  - had one comment on my post and no email notification on that . . . It would suggest somehow there are still gremlins - or otherwise I have a wrong setting here . . .

 

Not sure - hopefully it is my settigs and butterfingers doing a bad job . . . .

 

Sorry to be the carrier of bad news . . .

Reinhold aka Papabear

Chris Gaelic

09:21 AM   19-Feb-24

Good to see there is still life in the forum users! Yeah, I'm running a newer release of the software, and there was an update that prevented all the mail from going out. I've made a change to see if that fixes the problem. Hopefully, all the subscribers should now get this update.

Wanting to buy secondhand autotrail

by Les

[ 1 ]

Les

10:58 AM   19-Jul-19

Tuakau

PLEASE PUT ALL BUYING AND SELLING NOTICES IN MARKET PLACE UNDER THIS FORUM

Les

UK Club and Auto-trail factory invitations

by David Buxton

[ 1 ]

David Buxton

09:23 PM   04-Jun-17

Taupo

If you plan to motorhome in the UK the Chairman of Autotrail Owners Club, David Wort, has invited any of our members to make contact and attend one or more of their rallies.  Details of their rally dates and locations can be found on their website: www.atocuk.com. 

 

The Managing Director of Auto-trail UK invites any of our members, if visiting the UK, to tour their manufacturing factory in Grimsby, Yorkshire. Google Autotrail UK factory tour to find out when factory tours take place and make a booking. Some interesting videos pop up when you do this Google search too. 

Autotrail UK expanded manufacturing factory

by David Buxton

[ 1 ]

David Buxton

11:08 AM   23-Sep-16

Taupo

Here's an interesting article about Autotrail UK expanding their manufacturing facilities to cope with future demand. 

Click on on this link. 

//humberbusiness.com/news/auto-trail-academy-will-future-proof-motorhome-manufacturing/story-2972-detail/story

 

 

Auto Trail Owners' Club UK

by David Buxton

[ 1 ]

David Buxton

09:25 AM   21-May-15

Taupo

Our "sister" organisation in the UK has suggested that we share website links. There's is www.atocuk.com. They have a membership of over 2000 and are very active, running several big rallies in the UK and Europe. If you are planning a motorhome tour around the UK the ATOCUK may be a useful contact to make.

COMPANY RECOMMENDATIONS OR POSSIBLY NOT.

RSE Entertainment TV

by Malcolm

[ 1 ]

Malcolm

09:31 AM   01-May-23

Feilding

Has any member had poor dealings with RSE as regards their limited time warranty on TV's?

Thanks,

Malcolm

Warranty

by Andrea

[ 4 ]

Andrea

09:55 PM   06-Jan-22

68723

Hello, we are Germans, we bought a brand new auto trail Delaware in November 2019. End of march 2020 we had to leave the motoohm, heading home because of Covid.

After 18 month, stored in a field, there are some problems, e.g the Controller is broken, nothing is working.

we bought the car with Auckland motorhomes in Druy, the company was shortly after our deal sold to Nationwide RV. Asking for the repair under warranty, we are told now, that Narionwide RV is not responsible.

is that to understand? How is that in NZ law?

please help

andrea 

Beetle2

10:18 PM   06-Jan-22

Christchurch

I suggest you contact Fiat New Zealand and also Consumer NZ. Auckland Motor Homes have apparently abandoned their responsibities.... Nationwide RV bought the assets but somehow avoided the liabilities.

Beetle2

10:36 PM   06-Jan-22

Christchurch

I also suspect that if the vehicle was stored in a field for 18 months that the battery is totally dead and that the computer standby battery has also expired. Neither of these will be covered by warranty as they have not been maintained. But Fiat will know the anwer and sort it for you.

Andrea

03:22 AM   26-Mar-22

68723

Thanks!!

Autotrail Warranty Auckland motorhomes

by Craig

[ 1 ]

Craig

10:42 AM   08-Nov-21

Matamata

Wondering if anyone has clear recollection of what the managing director of Autotrail UK said at the Northland Rally in November 2017? I have read the notes of the meeting and they say he said that the 2018 homes would be under a 5 year warranty for the Fiat chassis etc and the Habitation. Listening to the You tube video though he said initially that there was NO warranty once the motorhome left the UK. This was because of providing replacement parts in a timely manner from the UK, Then right at the end of question time he is asked about warranties and he stated that to meet  Australian standards ( I think he meant competition) that Autotrail would raise the warranty to 5 years. Again though I think he is talking only of the Fiat component. The sound recording is not great so I wonder if I am missing something. On the other hand he never makes it clear that any warranty on the Habitation is solely at the discrteion of the Dealer. 

I have been in contact with Nationwide RV and Dan of AMH and neither accept liability. Bob of Nationwide RV has been helpful with advice and sent me a sink. Good of him. He is consistent that Nationwide bought stock plant and site but not AMH and its liabilities. Autotrail UK takes the position that once our van left the UK it had no liability to honour any warranty. 

Autotrail is a multinational company with huge turnover and I find it incongruous that Fiat (also a multinational) has its dealerships accepting the 5 year warranty regardless of the AMH position. I assume that when Nationwide RV became the Autotrail dealer in NZ that there must have been some legal agreement between Nationwide and Autotrail. It seems to me that Autotrail has been negligent and derelict in its duty to me as one of its NZ customers if it did not ensure that the warranty under which I had bought their product continued unfettered once it  shifted the dealership to Nationwide RV. 

I own a Mercedes and I cannot imagine Mercedes reneging on a warranty issue  just because another company took over the selling of their marque. 

2020 Tribute 680 Camper Van

by Malcolm

[ 2 ]

Malcolm

11:58 AM   01-Sep-20

Feilding

Joining the AT owners forum as we have recently purchased our first AT, a 2020 Tribute 680 camper van from Nation Wide RV in New Plymouth. Good sales service for first time AT buyers.

 

Pleased with the build quality from AT plus the new Ducato 140hp 9 speed automatic is a great drive. AT have certainly packed a lot into these 680's and for two of us has all we need.

 

This is our 6th motorhome/camper van since 1992 and we have come full circle starting with an ex rental camper van and owning 4 motor homes, the last one 7 meters. 

 

Look forward to seeing other Tribute 680's on the road and also other AT's.

 

Malcolm

Feilding

Manawatu

 

 

 

 

 

Malcolm

05:50 PM   20-Dec-20

Feilding

Had an issue with our new van entry door electric step not opening/closing.

Nation Wide RV New Plymouth (Bryan) gave us great warranty service and replacement step now provided and installed.

Sale of Auckland Motor Homes

by Bob and Denise

[ 29 ]

Bob and Denise

10:51 PM   13-Dec-19

WHANGAREI

Hi I saw on FB that Auckland Motor homes has been sold RV Centre but as to date have not received any offical,notification. My Question is under AMH we had a 5 year warranty of what we've used 2 years. Will the 5 year warranty still be valid or does it to revert to RVs policy of 2 years. Also we were in the process of trying to fix our grey water sensor through our warranty .
we are having trouble with our grey tank sensor and we have done all the things AMH recommended but it still shows that tank 25% full although it is empty 

 

Les

10:09 AM   14-Dec-19

Tuakau

Hi Bob & Denise, It would probably pay to ring AMH about warrants. Waste water gauges are always a problem. Look under Autotrail issues selfcontainment..waste water Les

Kiwi5

02:59 PM   21-Jul-20

Napier

Hi Bob and Denise,

I have been advised by Nationwide RV that our warranties will remain with AMH Ltd and we should contact them as required.

 

Can anyone advise contact details for AMH Ltd.

 

many thanks

 

Peter

Boltman

05:43 PM   21-Jul-20

Whangarei

Sorry but good luck getting any thing out of AMH.

AlanE

07:37 PM   21-Jul-20

Auckland

Guys, I find this hard to believe. AMH sold their Autotrail agency to Nationwide RV. Autotrail UK MUST have aprroved the transfer of the Autotrail agency to Nationwide including a continuation of warranty comittments. I suggest someone speaks long and hard at Treena Balsallie...she was AMH before she took on the role of Manager Nationwide.

 

If she legs it. then an official letter from this group needs to be sent to Autotrail UK registering this problem

 

Regards

Kiwi5

09:06 PM   21-Jul-20

Napier

AlanE

 

Last week I had that conversation with Treena Balsallie at Drury.

She was adamant describing the Nationwide RV newly advised policy. Our warranty can only come from AMH Ltd and we should contact them directly. I asked for an email. She advised she had been told an email would distributed to to us all in the near future.

 

regards

 

Peter Kiwi5

Geeco

12:53 PM   22-Jul-20

NSW Australia

When we purchased our Tracker FB in 2015 (delivered in Sydney AU) I  seem to remember seeing a document that indicated AT UK had sold the vehicle ex Grimsby without warranty. Presumably at a lower price to reflect that the warranty would be covered by the Australian importer. If the same arrangement was in place for NZ then AMH was covering the warranty. It seems that the terms of sale between the two companies involved would determine which one would cover any outstanding warranty issues. As a matter of interest the AU warranty on the habitation area is 1 year. If your warranty in NZ is 5 years then the warranty could be underwritten by an independent warranty/insurance company potentially adding a further layer of complication.

When all you probably wanted was a relaxing stress free retirement!! Good luck with your negiotations.

Julie and Bill

07:07 AM   23-Jul-20

B of P

Hi we are in the are in the same position as Bob and Denise and I suspect many others are the same.
Treena has been difficult to deal with .
As was Dan before he sold AMH to Nationwide
I have sent an email to New Plymouth , Nationwide headquarters, but the only way I could was through reception - Claudia- 
Yes I would like a specific person in the authority in Nationwide as I surmise AMH will be a waste of time will wait to get that email from Treena...
Getting in touch with UK would be the next move 

Emjay

03:25 PM   27-Jul-20

Julie & Bill

We will be all very interested in seeing what your email reply to Nationwide says. I have been told today by Nationwide Drury that the 10 year Habitation Warranty on my Motorhome issued by AMH 2 years ago was with AMH and Nationwide will not be honouring that! Apparently the 5 year Fiat Warranty is with Fiat NZ so is still OK.

The habitation check that AMH did a year ago at a cost of approx $65 is now over $200!!

Seems to be a gross breakdown in communication from the new owners in not being open about all this. Seems that Autotrail UK should be bought into this as this will result in inrepairable damage to their brand in NZ as this Warranty was a deciding factor in choosing an Autotrail Motorhome above others.

 

Julie and Bill

05:22 PM   27-Jul-20

B of P

Hi all 
My understanding is that Nationwide RV have bought the stock but not the liability from AMH
Like you I am waiting for the email they say they are going to send all of us telling us this fact and where we stand  with Autotrail NZ support.
Given the lack of support and inconsistency  in accepting warranty claims, a huge hype in ingress check charges , etc. I think Autotrail UK needs to be involved. 
 

AlanE

06:01 PM   27-Jul-20

Auckland

I agree!. Nationwide may have bought a very valuable NZ agency i.e. Autotrail BUT we are the customers, we pay their wages and we pay their bills. Autotrail UK please...whgo is going to grab this and sort out the rabbist!

 

AlanE

06:01 PM   27-Jul-20

Auckland

I agree!. Nationwide may have bought a very valuable NZ agency i.e. Autotrail BUT we are the customers, we pay their wages and we pay their bills. Autotrail UK please...whgo is going to grab this and sort out the rabbist!

 

AlanE

06:03 PM   27-Jul-20

Auckland

P.S I apologise for my spelling...but the message still stands.

ChrisB

07:37 PM   27-Jul-20

New Plymouth

We hear all the anguish for those who have recently purchased Autotrails from AMH.  We understand your frustration.
However, we would like to provide some balance/reality to this debate:

 

1.  AMH is no more as an on going business and likely has minimal assets.

 

2.  Nationwide RV supposidly did not buy AMH.  It did not purchase the company: it purchased their business / stock and franchise.  Not the company or it's liabilities (including warranties outstanding)

 

3.  NZ is such a small % of AutoTrails business.  They will not spen much time on this.

 

4.  The cost to re-secure the 2 years warranty for habitation is not commensurate with the benefits.  Most recent purchasers have less than 2 years remaining.

 

5.  If you purchased your AT in NZ, the NZ Consumers Guarantees Act (2003) provides plenty of protection for serious deficts/claims.

 

6.  Some of us have purchased our ATs offshore and imported them into NZ.  In this situation there is no habitation warranty.  And for us, we have had no problems.  We can easily get parts from the UK.

 

7.  The warranty of "value" is the 5 year Fiat warranty, not the habitation warranty.
Make sure your Fiat vehicle is registered with Fiat NZ via your Fiat service franchise.

 

8.  Lastly, spend you energies where they will be beneficial and fruitful.  Life is too short !!!

Cheers,

 

Chris

 

PS.  We have no affiliations (or love) for AMH.

 

Avocadopicker

08:52 PM   27-Jul-20

Katikati

Well said Chris.

ChrisB

09:43 PM   27-Jul-20

New Plymouth

Thanks "Advocadopicker",


 it's the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth  . . . . (from my perspective)

 

Get on and enjoy life, its so precious ! ! !

 

C

Emjay

12:43 AM   28-Jul-20

Those of us that purchased our new Motorhome from AMH in the last few years were given a 10 year habitation warranty and not a 2 year warranty so quite a difference here if one intends to hold on to the Motorhome for a period where problems could arise.

As Chris has stated the Consumer Guarantees Act gives purchasers some added protection but AMH is not an ongoing business and will probably wind up giving no protection!

All this uncertainly would have been avoided if Nationwide RV had applied some sensible business skills and formally advised all existing owners of Motorhomes purchased from AMH the situation as regard warranties. Customer contact from AMH  was abysmal and it doesnt look like its getting better under the new owners!!

 

Muzza

 

 

 

Julie and Bill

10:37 AM   28-Jul-20

B of P

Who are you Chris B from New Plymouth ?
Are you an agent for Nationwide ?
I expect  the email Bob Stables-Ross , owner operator Nationwide RV,  is going to send out to all affected AMH customers -will say these things.
Yes a lot of what you say is very true.
Life here on earth is too short for this “flogging a dead horse” scenario
On this issue with AMH and the warranty it  will probably not be  going to go any further

 

 

Also AUTOTRAIL UK is in their words ..

 

“Hi Mr Ridley

Thank you for your enquiry.

 

As per the terms and conditions, The warranty does not apply to motorhomes permanently exported from the UK.....

 

Regards,

 

Amy Johnson

Customer Services Team

 

 

Main office: +44(0)1472 571000    web: www.auto-trail.co.uk”

 

 

UK AUTOTRAIL are not liable once the MHs leave the UK( permanently) 

So there we are ex AMH customers ...there we are...we need to move on.

 

 

Regards
Bill and Julie


 

Avocadopicker

08:19 AM   29-Jul-20

Katikati

Actually the invoice from my UK dealer when I bought my latest Delaware last year specifically included the words 'no warranty', as the sale was for export.

Boltman

02:13 PM   29-Jul-20

Whangarei

Once the position autotrail owners becomes public it will affect the resale value of Autotrail Motorhomes in New Zealand. Dan was protected by a click of owners who used used to stroke his ego. That protection has now gone. 
 

John M

07:40 PM   29-Jul-20

Auckland

I wouldn’t worry about this harming values, and question whether the warranty was ever transferable?  The product is arguably the best of UK products, and AT claim on a marketing video to have 25% market share, in the UK at least they are highly regarded.  The prices will hold as the buyer still gets a great van.

 

But I think an understanding of importing and warantees might help.

 

My experience as an importer of a major Japanese electronics brand says it is unlikely that there was any contract between AT and AMH. For years there were two or three persons in NZ importing AT motorhomes directly from AT in the UK.   I would suggest that if you front up at Grimsby tomorrow with the money they will sell you ten motorhomes.  

 

My experience with Japan was that at anytime they can and will take the brand off you.  For this reason when trying to sell an import business there is no ‘good will’ factor as the product your business is built on is not securely yours!  You can loose the product tomorrow!

 

AT are not Toyota nor Mercedes nor Fiat, not a major vehicle manufacturer.  Most class A or class C MH contain three parts, a Fiat cab unit, an Alko Chassis, and a plastic house box.  All separately manufactured by three companies with three warrantees.

 

Most manufactures don’t pay for warranty repairs.  They don’t even pay for the parts, to do so would be a logistics and admin nightmare.  In most cases they give a parts allowance equal to a percentage of the ex factory value.   So for example I was selling an item that retails in NZ for $1000, we were credited $7 to our parts account to cover the warranty.  I’m talking about a very BIG brand.  We maintained a parts inventory for the life and longer of the product, and we paid the service department labour from our sales profits.  

 

I would imagine that most Motorhome warranty repairs here are made by the importer/reseller.  Many parts are interchangeable between brands, and many parts are easily repairable so any back yard dealership can handle habitation repairs.  

 

We are very lucky to have Fiat warranty our MH cabs.   Most automotive brands do not cover private imports.  I suspect Fiat do so only because they sell cab units to about 100 MH manufactures, and so the “good will” is significant.  They probably found it so complicated arguing over who pays for what that they simply built the service into the cost price and offer a blanket warranty.

 

Generaly there is no such thing as an international warranty, even though the retailers in Hong Kong and Singapore told you so thirty years ago when you shopped duty free.  If you are ever tempted I suggest calling the NZ distributor and confirming.  

 

I feel sorry for those of you who may get caught out on this, but as others have said, best to move on, you may never need warranty support.

 

JohnM

Covid Refugee in Coromandel 

Comanche in Kent

 

 

grantm

09:44 AM   03-Aug-20

We are in the process of buying a new Ford based Tribute  M/H from NW  and they advise they are in the middle of the process of  having a NZ based Ford warranty sorted out - I had already gone through this "argument " with Ford NZ about a warranty on my Ford DCIV I imported from England - which i did because  because Ford would not sell me a manual version - they wouldn't even take an order for a new one  ( great customer service there Ford NZ ) ...so hopefully once the MH warranty is sorted with Ford, my new Transit Custom will be covered ..one waits to see the outcome..

Ray W

01:02 PM   03-Aug-20

Auckland

I booked for my annual water ingress check - previously $57- to be told now $270! If I want any sort of warranty Treena informed me the cost is $3,000 for 3 years . 
I see no value to either the check or the warranty and just hope Autotrail have made a good product. 

The warranty cost must be a huge profit area for Nationwide if only half the owners are persuaded to buy in.
I certainly will not be recommending Nationwide as a "caring" franchise and hope to have nothing to do with them in the future.

AlanE

02:57 PM   03-Aug-20

Auckland

I agree...disappointed in them. Wont buy another one.

John M

10:15 PM   03-Aug-20

Auckland

So what would you buy instead, an inferior brand?

This is not an Autotrail Issue!

It is a New Zealand issue.

We are as always a minor market.

We, the general public of NZ are and always were on the back foot when it comes to purchasing any small volume product.

Five years ago AT were one of just a few brands available in NZ, now every Tom Dick and Harry imports one or two of numerous MH brands into NZ.  The market is now diluted.  Being the AT distributor is now probably less profitable than it was.

This is the way life is here, unfortunately.

So, by taking a grudge against the new importer means from your comment that you will settle for a lesser product?

Today it is AutoTrail’s distribution, next month it could just as easily be a German brand, the following month an Italian brand?

It is not economic for a MH manufacturer to distribute to NZ, so we have to either import ourselves, accept the situation of middlemen importers, or go back to the days of NZ built vans.

 

Re habitation checks, FYI, I pay about $350 for mine in Yorkshire.  I have paid up to $1600 for a Fiat service by a major Fiat dealership.

Regards

John M

 

John M

11:59 AM   04-Aug-20

Auckland

Re water ingress checks, you can do this very easily yourself, once the supposed warranty expires.  

 

Buy a meter from Bunnings or Mitre Ten, but buy the type with two sharp petal probes.  That is what the Professionals use in the UK.  

 

Press the probe gently into the wallpaper of the interior lining so that it penetrates the thin plywood behind the wall paper.

 

I bought a Stanley brand, similar to what the inspection guys were using.

The probes don’t do any damage and the pin holes disappear.

If you find any wet areas you can then fix or have them fixed.

 

It pays to check more often than just at annual service.  It also pays to continue to monitor an issue after it has been repaired, because finding leaks is not always successful.

 

The places to check are all the hidden areas,  inside the overhead lockers, under the seats at floor level behind the cab and close to the cab, around windows and hatches, all body corners or where body panels join.  In the garage, check for leaks coming from around the joins of the moulded rear fibre glass panels.

JohnM

Sandy Dougherty

07:17 AM   05-Aug-20

Cambridge

This sounds like a good idea to me John M, I would be interested in doing this. Can you recommend where we might buy this? I have no idea where to start looking! I'm thinking that its something a few of us could pool together and purchase if they are reather expensive. 

Evan and Rachel

08:22 PM   10-Sep-20

Palmerston North

John M....in our case and many others i am sure it is Autotrail's issue....we have so many issues with our motorhome since we purchased in 2018 and this can only be from bad workmanship from the manufacturer. We truly have purchased a lemon and are still have ongoing issues. We will be spending our energy at this stage fighting it. Will definitively never buy another Autotrail and will not recommend them to our friends.

Boltman

08:28 AM   08-Apr-21

Whangarei

If any autotrail member is in the Whangarei area let me know, if I'm available I will do an thermal camera scan of your motorhome and a water content measure of your walls for $50.00. 

Taranaki RV center New Plymouth.

by paul_1

[ 4 ]

paul_1

05:00 PM   13-Aug-18

coromandel

We have just brought a new Autotrail RB Tracker, and was wondering if any members had had any issues with the company.

Mike & Chris

07:31 PM   13-Aug-18

North Canterbury

Hi Paul

Haven't dealt with Taranaki but we bought our motorhome new in 2016 from Ashburton RV which is the same company. Absolutely nothing bad to say about them, great friendly service including fixing a couple of small defects since without any quibble. Mike

Rovin Robbie's

08:37 PM   13-Aug-18

Invercargill

Hi Paul, we also have dealt with Ashburton RV and reiterate Mike & Chris’ comments. I believe that Taranaki RV operate under the same ethos. 

paul_1

10:33 AM   14-Aug-18

coromandel

Ok thanks unfortunatly we are having issues with them 

Great aftersales service from Ashburton RV

by Tim and Sheryl

[ 3 ]

Tim and Sheryl

07:25 PM   15-Jul-18

NSW

A huge thankyou to Allan King of Nationwide RV, Ashburton for giving up half his Sunday to personally fix some teething problems with our new Delaware. Follow up service at its best.  Many thanks Allan for being there when we needed you.

Allan King

01:07 PM   18-Jul-18

Ashburton

Hi Tim and Sheryl, You are welcome and we are sorry you had this issue, Thanks for your time

Rovin Robbie's

02:33 PM   18-Jul-18

Invercargill

We have also benefitted from Allan's assistance when most needed in helping us with problems experienced with our Comanche. Allan King and Ashburton RV's after sales service and advice have been greatly appreciated and Allans producted knowledge is second to none. Thank you Allan & team.

 

Ray & Caroline Robinson.

Buyin g from a dealer

by Just out

[ 1 ]

Just out

12:07 PM   09-Apr-18

Kapiti

Hi we are about to put a deposit on a Van at RnRv Silverdale and just want to know if this is a good dealer to go with.

Thanks

Motorhome hire in the UK

by Mike & Chris

[ 5 ]

Mike & Chris

04:28 PM   27-Feb-18

North Canterbury

We will be visiting the UK this northern summer and considering hiring a motorhome for about 4 weeks. Any reccommendations for hire companies? Has anyone done a private hire arranged through the UK Autotrail Club and if so did it work out ok?

Mike

Avocadopicker

05:18 PM   27-Feb-18

Katikati

We rented a van (similar bedroom layout to a Delaware, but smaller with different (more compact) living space) from JustGo. The guy there was from Auckland and was easy to deal with. Had the van for 10 days (in 2011 mind) and no problems. Have a look at https://www.justgo.uk.com/4-berth-fixed-rear-double-bed-motorhome-hire.html 

John M

07:54 PM   27-Feb-18

Auckland

Hi Mike

We have now lived full time in Europe for two years, including six months in the UK.

 I recommend that you must join the Caravan and Motorhome Club as you will save the membership value in about four nights!

The club owns about 200 camps, plus about 2000 affiliated privately owned mini camps called CLs ( certified listings) which are exclusive to club members and limited to about five caravans or motorhomes plus five tents.  CLs are usually in farm yards or large private gardens with minimal facilities but normally powered.  Often owned by club members.’

The club camps are the among the best in Europe and cost about £20-25 per night.  CLs about £14-16 pn.  

The club camps generally hold about 30-80 vans, and pitches are clearly defined unlike NZ.  Booking ahead is essential over the summer.

There are some methods of freedom camping such as pubs that welcome motorhomers, but not so common?

While the club was mainly about caravans when it was founded 110 years ago it is now recognising that the membership is rapidly swinging towards motorhomes.  

Enjoy your touring

John

Col

02:31 PM   03-Jan-20

Porirua

I agree we joined the UK  Caravan and Motorhome Club in 2015/2015 and in 2017 for a total of 18 months touring. Their facilities are first-rate, a good monthly magazine full of handy tips and a crossword!.

We used many different sites - even the loos are heated in the cooler Brit winters. Excellent pitches but you do need to book ahead. 

I'd also recommend the French Air de Service facilities as they provide many with power etc at very reasonable prices.

Have a great time

Colin

 

John M

10:45 PM   03-Jan-20

Auckland

We have been full time in Europe for four years, and have stayed at 175 locations.  We don’t use aires because we prefer the security and freedom of campgrounds or motorcamps.  I’ll concede that we miss out on some of the fabulous locations of aires or freedom camping locations.  We also tow a car which makes us conspicuous at aires, taking up too much space, but our choice is really about greater security.  We also tend to stay longer than aires permit.

 

The purpose of this is to note our average nightly fee, for the benefit of anyone heading to Europe. 0ver the four years our average pitch fee has been about $39NZ per night.  

 

The peak season is from about late June to mid September, where the pitch fees will be between $60-90.  The highest prices have been in Norway, Sweden, Croatia, and the north of Italy.  The $90 camps are resort like but chosen for their convenient locations.

 

The low season is most of the rest of the year.  With an ACSI card the off peak rate falls to about $30-40.  

Google ACSI for details.

 

Note that most of the north of Europe closes to tourists from mid Sept until about May!  For example there are few motor camps open in France from October through the winter.  Of course aires may be open.  From October most touring Motorhomes are heading to Portugal and Spain, where most touring people spend the winter, a few weeks or months in one destination before moving elsewhere.  Some spend five months in one spot, we did that for three months of our first winter, and had a fabulous time with a climate better than Auckland’s summer.

 

In the UK most camps close for the winter from mid October.  But a few Caravan Club sites remain open all year.

 

To visit London, the CC site at Abbey Wood is perfect and open all year.  We were there for ten days in November, the train is ten minutes walk from the camp, and a one week Oyster Card covering trains, tube, buses and river ferries cost £50/$100 per person.  A one day pass was £20/$40.

 

I hope this is useful to those planning a longer tour.

 

JohnM

Auckland

SmartRV

by Roger

[ 1 ]

Roger

12:01 PM   15-Dec-17

Auckland


Hi all 
I am not sure if you folk know but SmartRV has a full service centre in Auckland and Christchurch. They offer a full range of services including annual servicing (for motorhomes up to ten meters), WOFs and COFs, sales and fittings of motorhome appliances and accessories, and much more, both inside and out.
They told me the over $700,000 worth of parts in their warehouses. Many of the parts that Auto Trail use they carry. They said they have coachbuilders, auto electricians as well as mechanics.
They have all the fiat diagnostics and computers needed for servicing.

They are great people and their quality is second to none.

Taranaki RV

by Boltman

[ 3 ]

Boltman

10:26 AM   19-Sep-17

Whangarei

I Have just recieved part from Taranaki RV. John in the parts department is very professional. A hassle free company I would recommend them.

Sue

12:15 PM   19-Sep-17

Christchurch

Totally agree regarding Taranaki RV.  After winning a voucher at last year's Kaponga rally and redeeming it was effortless, I thought they deserved my business.  So when I needed to order parts from the UK they organised it for me and I've since been up twice (from Wellington) to have work done, they are very knowledgeable, helpful and lovely to deal with, I also highly recommend Taranaki RV.

Magndav

10:45 AM   21-Sep-17

Auckland

Another keen supporter. We have been driving down from Auckland for the past six years with our Cherokee whenever attention has been required. They have always been a pleasure to deal with and workmanship excellent.

Auckland Motorhomes

by RolandM

[ 7 ]

RolandM

09:38 PM   22-Jan-18

Tauranga

Last week we took ownership of our 2018 Delaware from Dan Monk and his team at Auckland Motorhomes. A special thanks to Dan, Treena, and Tony for their great service.  It has always been a pleasure to deal with such a professional team and we look forward to their continued support with our new Motorhome.

Roland & Gloria McQuoid

Julie and Bill

02:14 PM   07-Sep-18

B of P

Hi  Roland and Gloria

like you we bought a new Autotrail FB Tracker from Auckland Motorhomes- in March -but sadly our experience has been quite the opposite.

We have had many problems from Faulty Fridge faulty fittings and so on

Most recently we have had to take the Motorhome up for a 2 day stay there fixing the fridge , several LED lights and electronic step 

They seemed very busy and were not “on their metal” getting the jobs done 

We are really upset to have do many things going wrong with a new product.

Worst of all is the appalling manner of Dan Monk

We feel deeply hurt by events and are looking for a way forward

any ideas?

regards

Bill and Julie Ridley

John M

04:59 PM   07-Sep-18

Auckland

Hi Bill and Julie

Don’t be disheartened by the faults, frankly this is totally normal.  These issues are not Autotrails fault in so much as they use the same handful of equipment suppliers as every other manufacturer.  There are only one or two sources of all the parts that make up a Motorhome

Almost every owner of a new van has something go wrong, regardless of the brand.

The fridge issue for example is a Dometic issue, not an AT issue.

Regarding Auck MH, well yes I have seen that before there.  It is poor management that they are that way, but unfortunately they have a bit of a captive market until someone else sets up as an opposing AT dealer, so here is your chance Silverdale?

We purchased our Comanche in Wales and even though I kept emailing them as we travelled from Auckland to Wales advising them of our eta, nothing had been done to prep our van!  The sales team never came to meet us while we waited for two afternoons!  We could say “car dealers the world” over but prefer not too?

Enjoy your MH, it is a good brand, but not the best, they cost twice as much and still have faulty fridges and steps.

JohnM

Lake Garda 

RolandM

07:22 PM   08-Sep-18

Tauranga

Yes AMH are busy and some of their people are abrupt, however they do provide the best warrantee in NZ , they have sorted all our teething issues, plus I have read equally bad reviews on National RV who purchase from dealers in UK and not Autotrail direct. They also are busy and thus pushed time wise.

MHs are a complex collection of parts and all brands seem to have the same issues, one must just enjoy the life style . It is great 👍. Also Fiat have recalls at the moment on some Ducato units but the local fiat agents sort . 

 

A lot lot of the issues are with sub suppliers , hence affect all brands . Overall autotraildesigns are better than most if not all for how newzealanders use their Motorhomes. Ie longer theme on road than Europe and UK. 

More space , load carrying and storage in AT than most.

Boltman

08:27 PM   09-Sep-18

Whangarei

Hi Bill and Julie,

dealing with Auckland Motorhomes has been the worst experience. Yes the attitude of Monk leaves a lot to be desired. But unfortunately the management of Autotrail UK were shielded at Waipu from any adverse comments about the treatment owners have recieved. 

Best of luck the attitude will only get worse.

Leonie

10:49 PM   09-Sep-18

Napier

It is well known that Dan can be grumpy and caustic at times, it is Tony who is the gem of the business, I always deal with him, he seems to be unendingly patient, helpful and a good buffer “ business wise” against Dan. But I have found that Dan does have good product knowledge... he’s lost some good staff at times although there seems to be stability there at the moment. Dan gets very stressed fairly easily.. I have had a few issues with my van but overall great Motorhomes and constantly improving. 

Julie and Bill

07:57 AM   12-Sep-18

B of P

Thank you all for your comments yes we now realise that the multiple fix it thing is quite common - hopefully not too many or any more still to come The las straw was the electronic step failing - timing could not have been much worse - it happened just after we left toco e home to Taurangs— yes two people were stand outs for good service Tony and a new customer service person - Penny Anyhow thanks for you encouragement we will persevere regards Bill and Julie

Delaware Auck Compliance Arrival Aug 2016

by ChrisB

[ 1 ]

ChrisB

10:20 AM   21-Jun-16

New Plymouth

You could try Taranaki RV Centre.  They import Autotrails new and are well versed in their fit-out.  They also offer excellent after sales service - including self imports.  Great customer service.

 

They are a "one stop shop" for import clearance, COF/Rego, gas/electrical/self containment modifications and certification.  Their contact  details are:

 

Simon Barkley 
Workshop/Sales Enquiries 
Ph: 06 758 0984 ext 4 
Email: sales@taranakirv.co.nz

NZMCA discount when buying from Noel Leeming

by Chris Gaelic

[ 1 ]

Chris Gaelic

05:20 PM   23-Apr-16

I've taken advantage of my NZMCA discount to buy a number of items from Noel Leeming, typically getting a nice, but usually moderate discount, even on sale items. Today, we decided to buy a Panasonic stick blender - it's 600w rating was ok for our small inverter to handle. The list price at Briscoes was $199 - generously reduced to $99 for their Anzac weekend super sale. Checking the same item at Noel Leeming, it had the same $99 list price. It was a tad more than I really wanted to spend, but I asked what they could do for NZMCA members, and flashed my card. Member price was $31!!! Unbelieveable, but I didn't argue. Just thought you'd all like to know :-)

VTNZ Discount

by Mike & Chris

[ 10 ]

Mike & Chris

02:06 PM   13-Dec-15

North Canterbury

Hi

 

Reading through the NZMCA member benefits the website mentions a 15% discount for WOF at VTNZ... nowhere that I can see does it mention COF, is it just an oversight, is it the same discount?

 

Regards

Mike

James

03:15 PM   13-Dec-15

Whakatane

I believe it is also 15% for COF.  We got ours on 11/12/15 and paid $115.20

Alan and Barbara

11:38 AM   31-Jul-17

Warkworth

Just got a COF for our Delaware S this morning at VTNZ Warkworth at a cost of  $150.30 !!!!!!!! Queried the ammount which included NZMCA discount and was told it was correct. Anyone else been charged this ammount?

Sue

11:49 AM   31-Jul-17

Christchurch

No, I got a COF at VTNZ Seaview Wellington on 14 July 2017, also for a Delaware, and it was $125.10

Alan and Barbara

12:05 PM   31-Jul-17

Warkworth

Just sorted out the issue. VTNZ have standard branches and Premium A & B branches. Standard branches charge $120.87 + GST = $130.00 Less NZMCA discount which appears to be only 10% brings the cost down to $125.10

Moral of the story = shop at a standard branch only. Premium branches A & B are listed on the VTNZ webstite.

Dave_1

12:28 PM   31-Jul-17

Christchurch

Did you check if it can be changed to WOF. Our Imala was on a COF but when i enquired at VTNZ they said it can be on a WOF it just depends on weight. The WOF lasts longer and is only around $50. The change over is simple and free.

David Buxton

01:05 PM   31-Jul-17

Taupo

VTNZ Taupo and Putaruru charge about $115 including GST and NZMCA discount. 

Les

07:27 PM   31-Jul-17

Tuakau

VTNZ Warkworth $183 with discount on a Comanche type 6. VTNZ Hawera $120 with discount same vehicle 6 months latter. VTNZ Pukekohe $160

Mike & Chris

11:33 PM   31-Jul-17

North Canterbury

VTNZ Rangiora $125.10 this afternoon with NZMCA discount

Bman

07:21 PM   08-Sep-18

Auckland

VTNZ Mt Wellington $126 with NZMCA discount. Plus they are also open on Sat and Sundays

This is a great asset for Autotrail owners

by Martin_1

[ 1 ]

Martin_1

06:39 AM   05-Aug-18

UK

Greetings to all from the UK, just to say thanks for the work that has gone in to this site. We recently purchased a 2013 Apache and have learnt a lot from your forum. As you know there is an owners club website in UK but it does not have a forum or anything like the technical content of yours.

Brilliant.

FIAT DUCATO INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO

FIAT DUCATO INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO

by Les

[ 2 ]

Les

04:33 PM   20-Jul-17

Tuakau

 

YOUTUBE

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIsdJU8QcV0

 

 

Great Video Les

 

mh18

08:29 PM   24-Jun-18

Auckland

Very informative for a new Fiat Ducato driver... many thanks.

HEALTH

Use of CPAP Machines in Motorhomes

by Jo Wilson

[ 5 ]

Jo Wilson

11:41 AM   24-May-16

Papakura

Currently we use a standard CPAP through an inverter when off power which uses about 20% of our 464 Ahr battery storage. In summer we can replace this with our solar system but during the rest of the year it is a different story so after 2 nights with some TV viewing we need to go on power.  Has anyone had experience using any of the small battery run machines and can give us advice before we go ahead and purchase?  We are considering a Transcend unit at present but at about $1550 for a unit and battery we would like to be sure that we are doing the right thing.

The Sutherlands

09:20 PM   27-May-16

Auckland

Excuse my ignorance but whats a CPAP machine.

Jo Wilson

10:16 AM   28-May-16

Papakura

 A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine is used by persons diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea to assist with breathing during sleep because typically they either stop breathing for short periods or are not sleeping deeply enough.  My wife's health is amazingly so much better since the diagnosis was made and she sleeps with her CPAP.  The 230v machine is on free loan through the DHB Sleep Clinic as a basic supply item and patients are monitored through these clinics.   

Jo Wilson

10:07 AM   10-Aug-16

Papakura

Having seen an advert in the Motorcaravanner from Breathing and Medical we have now purchased a Transcend Fixed Pressure Mini CPAP and have found that it is really good.  Compact and light weight, its best feature is low power usage. Our battery only reduces by about 5 - 6% overnight  compared to 20% with the Ikon model provided by the local DHB.  It is a little noisier but not enough to bother us. There are also options for rechargeable battery usage which we may look at later.  Nick Bishop at Breathing and Medical is very helpful to deal with. 

Alistair & Stella

06:23 PM   30-Apr-18

Christchurch

 Thanks for the recommendation, I have also purchased one of these units, along with the battery pack, and humidifier ( this part I am using at home with 240v supply) 

 

 

INSURANCE

Insurance cover for MH in storage.

by UK KIWI

[ 1 ]

UK KIWI

12:57 AM   28-Oct-20

Canterbury

Regrettably our Motorhome is having to go into storage for 12 months or more so I am wanting to arrange storage only insurance cover rather than the current Fully Comp AA policy we currently have.

I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has experienced success in using a company who will provide this type of cover.   

Motorhome Insurance

by Alan and Barbara

[ 6 ]

Alan and Barbara

12:15 PM   31-Jul-17

Warkworth

Just insured our new Delaware S. Thought I get another couple of quotes to make sure I wasn't paying too much.

Covi was the most expensive with Campercare coming in 2nd. Surprisingly AA Insurance were the least expensive with a $400 excess. Saving overall $277.30. Certainly worth the exercise!

WD

08:55 PM   15-Jul-18

New Plymouth

Just completed same with our Dakota saving $400 annually with AA. I did have to change over my car insurance, at the same rate however to get the deal with AA insurance as you need to have more than one asset insured with them. That was no problem. Also changed up to th AA Plus for 24/7 road side assistance for the motorhome.

Elliot

09:04 PM   04-Oct-18

Is everyone happy with their AA policy, there are a whole bunch of motorhome specific items in the COVI policy and I need to check that these are covered under the AA, which is coming in at over $500 less for me .. i.e 50%!

 

Covi breakdown is pretty cheap though -- I need to check that this can only be added onto a policy and not purchased seperately. I've not yet had a quote for breakdown with the AA.

thanks 

Les

09:43 PM   04-Oct-18

Tuakau

Hi Elliot, go with AA motorhome Plus at cost of $75 breakdown. Enjoy your travels, and hope to catch up at the A /T rally on 26 Oct. Les

UK KIWI

05:04 AM   05-Oct-18

Canterbury

Hi Les, when I last attempted to get the AA motorhome plus breakdown cover there was a maximum length restriction of 7 metres. Does anyone know whether this is still the case? I am currently ensured with the AA but without breakdown cover unfortunately.

Thanks, Grant

Krauts

09:32 PM   01-Nov-18

Tauranga

2017 Imala 730 with AA  for $770 without breakdown cover.

European Insurance Cover

by Mikee

[ 1 ]

Mikee

11:49 AM   21-Nov-19

Auckland

For anyone heading up to Europe I would recommend contacting Martyn Todd-Smith at Milestone Insurance Consultants he was great to deal with, I am 76 years of age and it was not a problem to get full cover at a good price. His contact email is martyn.t@milestonehouse.com  Cheers  Mike

UK Insurance

by JohnK

[ 10 ]

JohnK

04:43 PM   05-Jan-17

Taranaki

Hi....we have just joined Autotrail Users as we have just ordered an Apache 634 to be picked up from the UK in May.

 

We have a query regarding insurance whilst driving in the UK. It has been discussed in parts in some other topics but we still can't find any company that will fully insure us. We are non-UK residents with non-UK drivers licences although I am a UK citizen and have access to a UK address.

 

As has been discussed previously in other topics, most of the insurance companies require you to be either a full UK resident or have a UK drivers licence for a certain period (at least a year).

We have been in touch with Down Under who at first would not insure us because the value of our motorhome exceeds their 55,000GBP limit but they have now come back and said that they would insure us for the value ex-VAT as we are purchasing it ex-VAT to ship it back to NZ. All the other specialist insurance companies that we have looked into also have a maximum limit on the value of the motorhomes they will insure.

 

If we go with Down Under, and it was written off or stolen, we would still be liable to pay the UK Govt VAT as it would not have left the country.

 

The main problem we are having is finding an insurance company that will cover the full replacement cost of the vehicle and not have any maximum limits. Has anyone else had this problem insuring their new motorhome in the UK before shipping back to NZ? I find it surprising that some companies have such a low limit on the value of the motorhomes considering the cost of them nowadays.

 

By the way, the information in the forums have been fantastic and very useful so far.

We look forward to any help or advice.

 

Thanks, John and Wendy.

MarkRoaming

05:09 PM   05-Jan-17

Try Vantage.  They initially declined us with this

I have offered your information to our panel of insurers but unfortunately they are insisting that a motorhome or similar leisure vehicle has been owned and insured by yourself within the last 2 years.

I did explain your situation but they have said they must following their underwriting criteria.

 

But I reapproached them after Downunder pricing blew me out of the water and they relented.

 

They quoted 2,811.35UKP for a 43,000UKP camper, we were advised to insure for full retail replacement in case she gets totalled.  They only offer prices on a yearly basis but when you are finished motorhoming you can cancel this insurance and be refunded back a percentage of the premium.

I tried for discount based on being members of the Auto-Trail Owners Club or Camping Caravanning Club UK or both.

Unfortunately memberships will not reduce the cost further.

They like to see previous ownership and insuring of a motorhome within the last 2 years.

 

See vantageinsurance.co.uk

 

Also

//www.tourinsure.de/international-vehicle-insurance/camper/europe9b85.html?L=6

 

I've no experience or affiliation with either lol

 

Please let us all know who you go with and your experience dealing with them.

 

 

JohnK

03:57 AM   06-Jan-17

Taranaki

Hi Mark....thanks very much for your reply.

 

We had already contacted Vantage and as you mentioned they insisted on us having motorhome experience and proof of previous motorhome insurance from our country of residence within the last two years.

 

Unfortunately, our motorhome experience included 6 weeks in the North Island last year using a converted Toyota Coaster on loan from my partners parents but we used their insurance therefore have no written proof but we also did a 5 month motorhome tour in the UK two years ago having bought a second hand motorhome and selling it again once our trip was over. I was sure that would have been relevant but after consulting the underwriters, Vantage came back saying that it had to be previous experience from our country of residence! I would have thought that having experience in the UK would have been more relevant. Still cant get my head round that one! The broker tried a few times but couldnt get the underwriters to take us on.

 

The company we used two years ago was BeWiser but when we approached them this time they insisted that we have to be residents and as we are purchasing a motorhome vat-free we are actually declaring that we are non-residents as residents are not eligible for the vat-free purchase.

 

As for Tourinsure....I had a look on their website but for a years insurance for a vehicle valued at 50,000 euros, the premium would be 6,729 euros! I didnt go any further than that!

 

We're sure there must be someone who has insured non-residents for using motorhomes with a value in excess of 55,000 GBP from all the motorhomes that have been privately imported to NZ.

Avocadopicker

02:31 PM   06-Jan-17

Katikati

Actually Tourinsure do the insurance by the month, so although it's eyewateringly expensive it's not quite as bad as having to pay for a whole year. They do however have an issue with insuring a vehicle in UK which is not already registered, and UKDVLA won't issue registration without insurance so bit of a chicken and egg situation there. I assume that your Apache is no more than 3.5T as you can't legally drive heavier vehicles without an actual UK driving licence. Kiwi/International licences no good! 027 444 1256 if you wish to discuss further.

JohnK

04:28 PM   06-Jan-17

Taranaki

Hi Avocadopicker....thanks for your comment.

 

Yes.....our Apache is under 3.5T so no worries with driving it in UK on my licence.

We are planning on touring UK/Europe for about 10 months so the Tourinsure option works out to be too expensive for us.

 

Starting to run out of Insurance companies to try....but will keep looking.

ChrisB

04:53 PM   06-Jan-17

New Plymouth

Hi John,

 

in June/July 2015 we picked up a new Apache 634 in the UK and toured for 6 weeks before shipping it back to NZ. The vehicle was insured for 55,000 UK pounds which was the purchase price we paid plus 20% VAT.  The insurer was DownUnder who were underwritten (?) by Unicom Insurance Services Limited, a division of Tradewise Insurance Company Limited.

 

We had to pay a full 12 months premium which (inclusive of all fees including credit card fee) was 2,385 UK pounds. We received a credit for the un-used portion of the 12 month period according to their sliding scale.

 

This was the only insurance company we could find that met our needs.

 

Happy to send you some information and/or arrange a time to chat about our experiences  chrisbushnz1@gmail.com

 

Regards,

 

Chris

 

PS.  Yes you do need the Rego number before the policy will be issued; so leave yourself plenty of time in the front end before planning to drive off in your fabulous Apache 634 !

JohnK

05:49 PM   06-Jan-17

Taranaki

Hi Chris....thanks very much for your advice. We were hoping that you would leave a comment as we noticed in some of your other topics that you have recently imported the same motorhome that we are planning to this year.

 

Yes....Downunder is the only company that we have found so far but as mentioned previously, they have a limit of 55,000 GBP and the Apache 634 has increased in value since your purchase pushing us above this limit.

 

This is also due to adding some options like Automatic, an engine upgrade and the Media Pack2 (which I wouldnt mind having a chat to you about as I'm thinking of leaving that out and maybe purchasing an aftermarket system). The full purchase price only just puts us above 55,000GBP but Downunder insist that they cant underinsure the vehicle and yet they are prepared to insure it for ex-VAT price which would leave us considerably short if we were to write it off or had it stolen!

 

Would love to take you up on your offer to email and chat further.

 

Regards,

John.

Avocadopicker

09:10 PM   06-Jan-17

Katikati

Tourinsure also offer 3rd party only cover which satisfies the legal requirements although of course it may not satisfy your personal ones! Just another thought, your dealer could exclude the options from your vat-free export invoice to keep the value down, although you would have to pay the vat on the options on a separate invoice. Just sayin'

JohnK

01:17 AM   07-Jan-17

Taranaki

That's a good point about not having the options included in the vat-free price.

Will look into that....thanks Avocadopicker!

Lesley W

05:11 PM   30-Mar-18

Auckland

This may be too late but I have only just joined this site, now living in New Zealand. We are British and traded in our small VW camper and caravan last year for a new Autotrail van conversion. However, we had been living in France and had French driving licences as well as the camper and caravan being insured in France. Buying the van was no problem as it is registered at my sister's address in England and the van is kept in England at present. Insuring it was another matter! I spent about two weeks trying to get insurance as we weren't permanently living in the UK. I tried all the insurance companies available as well as several brokers. Downunder wouldn't help due to the driving licences. Eventually I obtained insurance through Milestonehouse (Ian Scott was very helpful) with ERS which is part of Lloyds (co-incidentally who we had as our very first car insurers over 50 years ago) at a price of £3000.

I am about to go through the whole process again so I was interested in the quotes that other members had had from Downunder.We'll see what the renewal quote is.

 

By the way this is all after living in the UK and having driven there with clean licences for about 40 years.

 

We were thinking of bringing the van here in the next year or so but having visited Auckland Motorhomes the other day to find out what was needed, we are beginning to wonder whether it is worth it. Maybe I need a new thread for this conversation.

AA Plus as recommended at the Taranaki Rally by Chris Gaelic

by Sue

[ 2 ]

Sue

02:12 PM   30-Nov-16

Christchurch

Hi all, on Chris's recommendation I approached AA (which I've been a member of since 1982) to insure my motorhome and include the roadside assist.  I was given a very favourable quote, however on checking they advised that as I live in my moho they wouldn't cover me - seems strange, wondering if anyone else has encountered this?  AA staff member said I could add the AA Plus to my car cover but seems I will no longer need AA.  I am currently with CamperCare for my moho insurance.  Thanks

Chris Gaelic

09:25 AM   20-Feb-17

Hi Sue, that was a bit unexpected for me as well. What is the difference between travelling extensively in your motorhome, but still having a home address, or being committed to living in it permanently? Maybe your 'home base' could be the home of a son or daughter... Unfortunately, you are more likely to need roadside assistance because of a breakdown than because of an accident, so it's good to have some cover, given some of the places that we motorhomers get to. Have you checked with Campercare as to what they cover for breakdowns?

LIVING INFORMATION

Installing Table Pedestal - Apache 634

by Gazman

[ 1 ]

Gazman

09:19 AM   08-Jun-23

Hi team

Recently purchased a second hand 2015 Apache 634 - U shape dining.

Still getting set up how we like things.  I want to fix a 'permanent' adjustable height table with fixed pedestal post to floor  - lowers down, and then pull slats over to make doubke bed.  I dont like the free standing table  up down up down...

Question, has anyone retro fitted a pedetal base to the floor of their Apache? , I dont know the structure of the floors, so if anyone has any tips,.. Thanks

 

Gav & Lee

TV Reliability/Life Span

by Malcolm

[ 3 ]

Malcolm

10:51 AM   28-Feb-23

Feilding

Would appreciate members feedback on their experiences with their TV installed in their motorhomes/campervans.

 

I have a 2.5 year old non-smart tv that now has issues and am told by supplier that out of warranty. (Consumer Guarantee Act still to be investigated).

 

So how long should we expect a TV (sold as motor home conditions reliable etc) to last?

 

Thanks,

 

Malcolm

Adrian_1

05:54 PM   16-Mar-24

Napier

Our RSE TV   Model:  RSE22SS11 has suddenly decided it doesn't wnat us to see any pictures...but we can listen to the sound.

Contacting RSE they were very helpful, and sent a special file to update the firmware but it didn't solve the problem.  They have now suggested we send the TV back to them for a service.   But courier charges are astronomical!?   Has anyone any suggestions?   WE will try the specialist repair shop in Hastings, but I wondered whether the vibrations from road travel in a motor home may have caused a fixable fault?   

Papabear

06:15 PM   16-Mar-24

Christchurch

Howdy Adrian

Is Everything black??   No log in icon?/ No DVD played?? No settings screen to fiddle with??

Have you tried plugging it in a different ariel - outlet?? 

Presume your family members are not playing a joke on you and have just turned the screen to black in the colour settings ?!?!  (that did happen to someone I know!!)

 

Most TV's for Motorhomes are basically a LCD screen for PC's - with special motherboard to enable TV.

There is only a tiny little bit on a motherboard that drives the screen - or anything else to shake loose as its all soldered on. . . but stranger things have happend!! Given there is still sound, it would seem unllikely at the Mother board.

Hope it works out for you in Hastings!!

Cheers

Reinhold

 

 

Fitting pullout pantry to Imala 720

by Duncan/Julie

[ 3 ]

Duncan/Julie

08:00 PM   28-Nov-22

Auckland

At the last 2 gatherings I saw 2 Imala 720s about year models 2015 to 2018 which had a pullout pantry with same front board that slid out from the sink. Could anyone tell me how I can build one of these or suggest who could  provide or build one for me. Thanks dunju46@gmail .com.       or ph 021316661

Jo Wilson

03:27 PM   01-Dec-22

Papakura

Have done this in our Apache.  Removed cupboard door and shelving.  I got a slide out metal unit (a standard size) from Camec and installed in the space, attached the cupboard door to the front and installed a push switch similar ro other kitchen cupboards.  Also made a small open top box to slide under the unit to make maximum use of the space. Did this about 6 years ago and it is the best modification I have made.

HandS

05:18 PM   02-Sep-23

Auckland

We are looking at doing the same therefore keen to hear more.
We aim to insert in the underbench cabinet and remove the shelf.

Cannot see the fixing for this shelf so dont know what holes will be left once removed. 

When you removed your shelf, how was it fixed? were there just little holes or a big slot? 
Looking at options of drawers therefore your knowledge & advice would be appreciated

Thanks helen.okey@gmail.com

Water ingress

by Autotrail Users

[ 2 ]

Autotrail Users

10:37 AM   11-Oct-22

Hamilton

I am looking to buy my first motorhome - love the look of Autotrails but 'discovered' the FB page focused on unhappy Autotrail users - read some of those posts and you'd never buy one! 

 

I would really appreciate the opinion of Kiwis - how have and do you find your Autotrail's - for water ingress and build quality.

 

Much appreciated, Clare

Happy Hour

12:13 AM   07-Sep-23

Kaeo

Hi Clare, we're now on our second Tribute, hooked by their rear lounges and general layout. 1st was 2012 625, loved it. We sold at 65,000 miles, new owners very impressed how well it had survived. Sure we were diligent in maintenance. 
The F72 is only 2021 so can't say much about longevity yet, and it is a lighter weight construction-presumably to keep the 7.34m van in WOF and car licence limits- so we'll certainly be keeping our maintenance eyes open, but don't all MH owners?

Wintering Advice

by GS Berger

[ 1 ]

GS Berger

12:48 PM   09-Apr-20

Hi   We will be living/travelling in the south island during winter .I have no experience with preparing for  freezing events ,espically as we mainly free camp  ie no power hook-up- there is very little specific information in regards to this ,can anyone help with .

When to drain the truma tank and or water lines ,what to do with the fresh/grey and cassette tanks ,leaving taps on and pump off .I assume temps of 0 to say - 5  over night .

Cheers  can you please email   ge.berger@hotmail.com  or phone  02040140505

 

Sand flies - getting them out of motorhome

by GS Berger

[ 1 ]

GS Berger

07:10 PM   20-Feb-20

Hey there Help!!!! On the West Coast and getting hammered with sand flies. How do you get them out of your home? Coils, candles? We use sprays and cover to keep them off us however once you open the door they are in! Ugh You can email us at Samantha.steel13@gmail.com Cheers Samantha and Guy

Help with bedding set up

by Peter and Judy

[ 1 ]

Peter and Judy

10:07 PM   08-Dec-19

Auckland

as new owners of our motorhome that has single beds we were wondering what’s the best form of bedding to purchase. Ours has a u shaped lounge at the rear which will transform to our bedding at night. Had initially been thinking to get a mattress topper and king single duvets but thought I’d get some information on other ides on what’s a founded good ideas that have proved to work.

Printing documents

by GS Berger

[ 6 ]

GS Berger

05:56 PM   26-Aug-19

hello

 

seeking advice on having a printer on board whilst travelling.   Are there any printers specifically for motorhome or just use normal ones when plugged into power and wifi?

 

cheers

 

samantha

 

Samantha.steel13@gmail.com

John M

06:28 PM   26-Aug-19

Auckland

Hi Samantha

Most good printers have their own wifi or Bluetooth, so you don’t need to have Wifi.  For example your phone or laptop will connect to the printer directly.

Most are 230 volt, but are probably of low power consumption, so would work from a small invertor, but buy a good invertor for the task.

JohnM

Split

GS Berger

07:44 PM   26-Aug-19

Awesome thank you. Now just to sort out the internet!

Sublime

07:45 PM   26-Aug-19

Geraldine

We have a HP 3721 deskjet a really nice compact printer that also has a scanner on the top. Is wireless if you want it and 230v but we run ours through our inverter. I like the small size of it and not very often you have to scan documents but I have had to use it! Go to Noel Leemings and get your NZMCA discount, they are pretty cheap.

cheers

Sue

Graham and Laurel

08:03 PM   26-Aug-19

Masterton

For internet we got RSL Auckland to install and external areial and purchased a 12v modem from Wireless nation. Works very well, can stream video and run anything on tv with no problems

John M

02:31 AM   27-Aug-19

Auckland

 Not sure how good your phone deals are in NZ these days, but we only use our two iPhones as hotspots, no need to use the camp WiFi, we run iPads and laptops off our iPhones, no need for internet equipment in the MH.

Currently we pay about $50 for unlimited phone and text and 35 Gig of data, anywhere in Europe and NZ between any UK accounts.  We don’t view movies but we do watch lots of YouTube, load photos to the cloud etc, well within the 35 Gig, each.

This Vodafone deal looks likely to continue after Brexit on 29/10.......?????

JohnM

Split

Home brewing

by GS Berger

[ 1 ]

GS Berger

11:32 AM   22-Aug-19

Hello

 

has anyone done home brewing whilst travelling?   

 

If so, how and what equipment did you use?

 

cheers

 

samantha.steel13@gmail.com

The Forgotten Highway, Taranaki

by Gail and Shona

[ 2 ]

Gail and Shona

10:48 AM   24-Feb-19

We have an 8 mt motor home with a double bike rack on the tow bar. We are thinking of traveling between Taumarunui and Stratford on the Forgetten Highway in the coming weeks. Has any one travelled this road recently? Can you advise on state of road, especially the unsealed area? Any information would be gratefully received. TIA.

Ross

12:44 PM   24-Feb-19

Taranaki

 i did this 2 weeks ago in  my Appache from Stratford to Tamumaruni . no problem at. all the unsealed part is 12 K  just take it steady  lovely drive . Stop at wangamonona pub  good for a meal and a pretty good motor camp for over night .

Ants

by Julie and Bill

[ 4 ]

Julie and Bill

12:20 AM   27-Dec-18

B of P

Hi I am surprised Ihad to putt in "ants" as a new topic.

we were lucky that ants have not spoilt our time in the motorhome till now.

Initally we were able to deal with them in the food area with preps suck boric acid i.e. "no ants" but then they got into the bedding,There seems to be a lot of solutions including eg using lemon spray at the track points such as tyres or power cords but there seems little doubt they have made a nest in the FB mattress at the back and it is a work in progress that we have got rid of them.with spray cans and shutting the MH up 

any bright ideas?

 

John M

04:18 AM   31-Dec-18

Auckland

In Europe they are a big problem apparently but we have only had a couple of minor infestations.

 

The cure here is a powder product that is sold in most RV shops, that people sprinkle around their wheels and around the foot of the awning poles, ie where the ants climb aboard.

 

I just sprinkled a minor amount where I found the ants, which was above the habitation door and inside a locker.  That powder is still there and we have had no further issues.

 

In one camp where I could see powder all over vacant pitches indicating an issue, I sprinkled a little powder on top of each tyre.

 

JohnM

Kevin and Joy_1

01:12 PM   31-Dec-18

We have a FB matttress we no longer need. If looking for replacement please phone 02102799151 

Kevin

Julie and Bill

07:13 AM   10-Aug-19

B of P

Thank you for comments v slow w this post

no further problems but limited use of motorhome — guide dog raising and selling home.

plan to spray a prep on tyres as summer approaches 

no further problems with the FB mattress but appreciate offer for sale ? Is it available how new.?

Crackdown on Diesel vehicles in Europe

by Mikee

[ 8 ]

Mikee

12:24 PM   11-Sep-18

Auckland

With the apparent banning of diesel vehicles in Europe what is the likelyhood of this happening in New Zealand in the near future. My wife & I were seriously considering buying a 2005,  Autotrail 635, Mercedes 2.7L  for use in europe and then bringing over here but are concerned that the market could bomb and we are left with a liemon. 

 

All advice is welcome. 

 

Helen & Mike 

John M

05:08 PM   11-Sep-18

Auckland

The current opposition is to cars, not heavy vehicles.  The cut off dates are 2040 for the UK, which may have included trucks but we won’t know until the technology works.

In practice the batteries are some distance away from powering heavy transport, but obviously they are working on it.

Diesel car sales are falling in the UK already.

I don’t see any sign of RV sales waning here, quite the contrary.

Would I worry about it from an RV perspective, no!

Just my view of course.

 

As an aside, the UK power companies said for the UK to go all electric vehicles they needed another two nuclear power plants or 20,000 windmills, unlikely by 2040.

 

JohnM

italy

John M

05:09 PM   11-Sep-18

Auckland

The current opposition is to cars, not heavy vehicles.  The cut off dates are 2040 for the UK, which may have included trucks but we won’t know until the technology works.

In practice the batteries are some distance away from powering heavy transport, but obviously they are working on it.

Diesel car sales are falling in the UK already.

I don’t see any sign of RV sales waning here, quite the contrary.

Would I worry about it from an RV perspective, no!

Just my view of course.

 

As an aside, the UK power companies said for the UK to go all electric vehicles they needed another two nuclear power plants or 20,000 windmills, unlikely by 2040.

 

JohnM

italy

Terry

06:07 PM   11-Sep-18

Hi , you may find that the motor home is to old to be acceptable by NZTA.

Avocadopicker

10:25 PM   11-Sep-18

Katikati

Most vehicles from 2007 onwards will be Euro4 compliant which is the minimum standard for importation into NZ.

Mikee

03:17 PM   17-Oct-18

Auckland

Thank you for the advice will be very careful in our choice

John M

08:05 PM   17-Nov-18

Auckland

While not important to those buying today, I found this latest info in a Spainish newspaper.

 

The UK and France have banned diesel car and VAN sales from 2040, with all diesel cars and vans to off the road TEN years later. This later part about the ten year period has been missing from previous announcements that I have read.

Germany ban starts 2030

Norway ban starts 2025 

Spain is in process to ban from 2040

Most EU countries expected to ban from 2040.

The obvious anomaly is why has the EU not imposed a blanket policy, that may yet follow?

I guess a definition of VAN is required, perhaps under 3.5 Tonnes?

Regarding Norway, they are already big EV purchasers, they are Tesla’s 3rd largest market, with a Tesla Shop on every corner and cars about as common as Corollas in Auckland!

Just for your info.

JohnM

Marbella

Mikee

04:58 PM   13-Apr-19

Auckland

Thank you for taking the time to reply it is much appreciated, we have purchased a 2013 AutoTrail Tracker EKS up in England which after a couple of months in France etc will bring down here.  Cheers Helen & Mike

Cure for those pesky push-button taps

by Chris Gaelic

[ 1 ]

Chris Gaelic

05:57 PM   09-Jun-18

Strap for holding down a push-button tapFor those of you who haven't already done this, a simple strap with a buckle can be purchased from Mitre 10 or Bunnings for around $10 is a really easy way to sort out those annoying push-button taps when filling up with fresh water.

 

Winter Motorhoming

by The Sutherlands

[ 11 ]

The Sutherlands

08:38 AM   27-May-18

Auckland

For those that do the South Island in winter- what do you use for front cab window insulation. I suspect the fitted Remis blinds may not be up to the task. Thoughts and recommendations please.

Mike & Chris

09:25 AM   27-May-18

North Canterbury

Have a look at Auto-Trail Issues >> Auto-Trail Accessories >> Solar covers.

 

They work very well, not only keeping the heat in but also stopping condensation on the windscreen.

 

Mike

The Sutherlands

10:24 AM   27-May-18

Auckland

My research on the web shows Milenco as the only supplier of ready made external blinds and NZ agents for this product say that they wont be bringing these in as they have found NZ (and OZ) high UV degrade them very quickly. Hence I will be looking at internal sets. Again, Milenco make them and sell through various RV retail outlets and I seek advive on these. Solarscreen in OZ have also stopped sale of ready made externals but will make custom build ones at some cost. Price wise-I could import an internal set from UK but with the current exchange rate and shipping via YouShop it works out very similar to NZ prices. Same as from OZ.

 

Rob

Mike & Chris

02:41 PM   27-May-18

North Canterbury

They work well and haven't had any issues so far. Might do some research to see if I can easily add an additional UV protective layer to the outside before it starts to deteriorate.

Mike

John M

07:05 PM   27-May-18

Auckland

Just adding to the discussion, I think that the interior ones are a right pain!  Not easy to fit, I witness people struggling with them.  Take up space visually, clutter the cab.

 

We have an external Silverscreen brand from Yorkshire, not cheap, but we bought it because it seemed to be the most popular.  

 

An advantage of this brand is that the windscreen portion can be folded down during the day in summer to reveal the view or to allow light in during the day and put back up in the evening. Very simple quick fit.

Another advantage is that for full timers staying put for a while the inner blinds can be closed which makes the cab brighter and more homely, uncluttered.

 

Ours has survived two years of extreme summers, 45 degrees in Italy, while our Kampa tent totally persished.

UV may still perish it through the windows would it not?

 

I do get the UV issue, but I’d rather replace the screen occasionally than have internal thermal blankets!  Most use messy suction caps to hold them in place, so the thickness becomes bulky.  They never look neat?

 

As an aside, the heat last year melted our van awning while it was rolled up! The aluminium outer panel got so hot on the shady side (North side up here) that the fabric against the bar shrank over 100 mm!

 

JohnM

Yorkshire, farmyard pitch, somewhere? 

 

Mike & Chris

07:39 PM   27-May-18

North Canterbury

What about something like this?

 

https://www.amazon.com/303-Products-Inc-Protectant-Refill/dp/B000XBCURW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1343493475&sr=8-2&keywords=303+aerospace+protectant

 

Mike

Les

08:21 PM   27-May-18

Tuakau

Hi Looked at Burnsco Marine. They have Thetford RV Awning Cleaner $18. Blocks UV Ray's on vinyl and fabric. Les

John M

10:37 PM   27-May-18

Auckland

Trying to be more scientific about this (!).

If you insulate the inside, you allow the great expanse of glass outside to become a built in refrigerator attached to the cab. That will help to suck heat out of the surroundings. 

 

If you insulate the outside, and the exterior covers do cover more glass and metal than the interior ones which don’t fit precisely, then the glass is never super cold and shouldn’t effect the living area so much?

 

Another thought, Fiamma do a full windows and bonnet cover, I have only seen a couple, and I wonder how much more effective they are in snow conditions?

 

Also, you know to seal off the cab vent below the van in region of the fuel inlet pipe. There is a serious draft comes up through there into the living space.  

 

JohnM

 

John M

02:21 AM   28-May-18

Auckland

Check out

 

Silver Screens

 

www.silverscreens.co.uk

Mike & Chris

08:38 AM   28-May-18

North Canterbury

Totally agree with the view that exterior is superior. It's worth it just to avoid the windscreen condensation which I presume would still be present with an internal blanket unless it fitted very precisely.

Mike

The Sutherlands

07:28 PM   28-May-18

Auckland

Thank you all for your comments. Russeli Lowther has very recently posted on Facebook an extremely good and NZ made solution to the UV degradation problem which I will really consider once the product goes into production.

If the price remains the same then this product will be more than competitive against OZ made units and well suited to the Ducato chassis.

In my current work I have , over the years, supplied highiy UV resistant outdoor electrical enclosures to the likes of Auckland Motorways etc and have learnt that there are 3 things that make the UV rays much more intense here than the Northern Hemisphere 

!. The Earths orbit is eliptical so in summer here we are much closer to the sun than the Northern Hemisphere in there summer

2. We have less Ozone above us which allows more UV to strike the earth 

3. Lack of Pollution- the clearer air also allows more UV rays through.

 

Probably very boreing but these are the reasons NZ has the worlds highest skin cancer rates, relative to population and your stuff falls apart if its not made for NZ conditions. Except your MH of coarse which is white for a very good reason

 

Cheers

 

Ray's rest

by Warren and Carol

[ 3 ]

Warren and Carol

08:38 PM   17-Jan-18

Whangarei

Hi there, has anyone heard if it is still possible to park at Ray's Rest? We have been told that there is no camping there anymore.

Many thanks, Warren & Carol

Chris Gaelic

09:25 PM   17-Jan-18

Freedom Camping is allowed, and still very popular, at Rays Rest. You can check it out on the Hauraki District Council website: //www.hauraki-dc.govt.nz/services/parks-reserves/rays-rest/

AlanE

10:58 AM   11-Feb-18

Auckland

Stayed there Waitangi Day...everything was fine

ALE

 

Watching netflix with mobile data

by Dave_1

[ 22 ]

Dave_1

07:59 AM   03-Jan-18

Christchurch

Has anyone found a good way to watch downloaded Netflix movies while on the road? It seems they can't be transfered to memory stick and the mini HDMI converter that I purchased does not work on my Samsung s6 phone.

I thought about chromecast but can't seem to find out how much data it uses to stream  an already downloaded movie? If it uses huge amounts that will gobble up my 1 GB per month very quickly.

Elliot

08:41 AM   03-Jan-18

I am pondering the same thing, before we leave... here in the UK I use an Amazon kindle fire HD tablet, download at home on wifi and store them on the tablet then watch 

beauty being it uses sd cards so I can fill up a few and bring with me

unsure how that's going to work in NZ with my Amazon account .. give it a try?

John M

10:09 AM   03-Jan-18

Auckland

If you have a video or whatever LOADED on your phone or tablet, and send it by Wifi to an AppleTV or Chromascast, you are not using your "data allocation".   You are using only the WiFi network within your van.  To use WiFi with in the van we assume that you have a router and the TV is connected to it.  You are not using your device's 4G account.

So no cost!

 

But if you watch YouTube or Netflix for example on the phone and send it to the TV then yes that uses 4G data.

 

If I remember correctly you can't connect your iPhone via HDMI to the TV because Apple requires you to buy an AppleTV box.

 

Using Apple AirPlay you can watch recorded material or photos on the TV, if you have a WiFi network in the van.

 

I am full time (in Spain) and other Brits here buy local SIM cards and dongles that enable them to have typically 100Gigs of data for £20 pm, $42 pm.  With that they watch U.K. Free to Air programmes on their devices and don't run out of data.  Is Mobile data that cheap yet in NZ?

 

John

Mike & Chris

10:15 AM   03-Jan-18

North Canterbury

I had a similar problem connecting my Ipad and Iphone to our home theatre which I solved with an audio chromecast and it only requires wi-fi to initially set it going then the wi-fi connection can be turned off (unless you are downloading music)... presume that the video capable chromecast would be the same. A Belkin Miracast would also appear to be compatible with Samsung.

Dave_1

06:52 PM   03-Jan-18

Christchurch

Thanks for your help everybody. I don't think I can use an SD card. 

I have not used chromecast and unsure of how it works...I guess on the road my phone will be the router (it can be a portable hot spot if necessary) and maybe I can play the downloaded movies on my tablet??

So virtually no data needed, thanks John. BTW my 1 GB of data (and 300 minutes +unlimited texts costs $30 PM)

Will check out the Belkin Miracast also thanks Mike and Chris.

John M

08:37 PM   03-Jan-18

Auckland

Clarifying a couple of things here for other readers-

Data and WiFI are not the same thing, "Data" refers to having a contract to down load computer data over the Internet.

WiFi is the radio link between your internet connection and your portable device, i.e. Laptop phone or Tablet.  

So you can do things on your WiFi network without having or using "data"

 

If you have an Autotrail Motorhome with the flip down TV from more than three years ago you will not have the connections on those early TVs to accept the recent internet based TV systems.  You need a modern HDTV.

 

John M

Dave_1

08:16 AM   04-Jan-18

Christchurch

Thanks very much John for that explanation. So Noel Leemings had it wrong when they said Chromecast would use all my data if I used it to play my downloaded movies on wifi. I have replaced my drop down tv with a new RSE TV which is great...especially the satellite finder.

John M

10:49 AM   04-Jan-18

Auckland

Yes Dave, they were wrong, you only consume your data allocation when downloading from, or uploading to the internet.

There is one other consideration if using a laptop, there is a high risk that the laptop will be doing things you are not aware of and it can consume data behind your back, for example doing updates automatically.

But you phone and tablet will not use much data on its own accord.

If concerned you can turn data roaming off.

Chris Gaelic

11:28 AM   04-Jan-18

Just a thought out of left field on this - we replaced our home phones and broadband to a Netspeed wifi router which we can use at home or on the road. It saves us money, and means we get access to over 120 GB of data anywhere. Search on Netspeed under Autotrail Issues if you're interested.

Elliot

11:38 AM   04-Jan-18

what's the coverage like Chris? Is there a coverage map you're aware of? great having the allowance but if the signal is rubbish because you've decided to park "off-piste" somewhere ...not much use!

But it certainly sounds good...

Mike & Chris

11:59 AM   04-Jan-18

North Canterbury

Hi Dave

I think the Noel Leemings staffer was probably thinking that you would be live streaming not streaming previously downloaded movies. Remembering that I only cast music to an audio chromecast not video this is my understanding. You can only cast from a chromecast enabled app in your portable device so if you have a movie library then you will probably need to download an app such as "videostream" https://getvideostream.com/. Do a bit of googling, there is a lot of good info out there. If you can find a way of getting your movies onto a storage device it might be an even tidier solution.

Mike

Chris Gaelic

01:31 PM   04-Jan-18

Hi Elliot, with the occassional puzzling exception, the coverage is pretty good. It uses the Vodafone farm network, which often gives reception even when their mobile phone network is patchy. You get a reasonable idea of coverage using the Vodafone coverage map. You can also fit an external aerial, which might help a bit. I haven't needed to so far. Anyway, if you're out of reception, your mobile phone won't work either, and the only additional downside is not being able to live-stream movies. However, you still have the option to play previously recorded ones. Personally, I really like not having to be concerned about running out of data...

Just out

06:44 PM   08-Apr-18

Kapiti

Hi I use ,"Wireless Nation" and a short time ago where we stayed, I coud not use my 2 Degrees Mob Phone, however with my Internet I could phone contacts on my Messenger.

Dave_1

03:10 PM   13-Apr-18

Christchurch

Just been away for 6 weeks with several netflix movies downloaded on my Samsung Android phone and tablet to watch while away. It only seems to work when I use my phone as a wifi hotspot and run the movie from my tablet to the chrome cast. The problem is that it uses about 1 GB in less than an hour that way (even though I downloaded the movies at home.) I rang netflix and they said because I am apparently streaming it will use data....but that is a huge amount of data for my already downloaded movies. Any ideas?

ColininChCh

11:50 AM   14-Apr-18

Christchurch

Firstly I don't believe you can actually download movies from Netflix.

 

However if you have found a way to do that, why not copy them to your tablet (or to a storage device) when you are at home using your wifi network .

 

Sounds like you were in fact downloading the movie from Netflix as using the phone as a hotspot lets you connect to the internet via your phone which will use your data allowance unless you are connected to a wifi network ie at a caravan park for example. However you usually only get a limited amount of data over those, certainly not enough to watch movies. 

 

Alternatively you may be able to "mirror" your phone to your tablet but for that you will need to have a network to join and be able to share the files between devices ie your phone and tablet.

 

Alternatively try plugging your modem into your motorhome and, even though it wont have access to the internet, you should be able to access your network from your devices if they can be shared.

John M

06:56 PM   16-Apr-18

Auckland

Dave

The problem is that you have no WiFi network within your van, instead you are effectively connecting the phone and TV to the 4G network and doing a fresh download of the movie, using your phone data.

You need to create a LAN, Local Area Network, in you van.  

One way of doing that is to bring your router from home, power it up to 230volts, and your phone with connect to it automatically, then connect the TV, and it will enable the two to communicate.  Or buy a mother router. The router won’t go on line to the internet without a landline connection. 

Or you can buy 12 volt WiFi networks designed for use in your Motorhome, which will also access local camp WiFi.

 

We are at a Caravan Club Site in Wales, the charge for WiFi here is $5 per day, $20 per week, or $50 per year, and can be used at any club camp. Speed varies but they plan to go fibre.

 

Our Vodafone mobile phone accounts give us unlimited phone and Txt but only 4Gig of data per month in the UK but 6Gig in Europe with free roaming.  That costs us $36 per month, each. 

John

Festinog

Dave_1

09:20 AM   22-Apr-18

Christchurch

Thanks John and Colin for all your help. I will work through your suggestions. The router is a good idea and I have a spare one that I can try ☺

Netflix has a download button on some of their movies but they have control so tte downloads  are only available for about a month and they can't be put on an external storage device unfortunately.

Avocadopicker

09:54 AM   22-Apr-18

Katikati

We prefer to carry our entertainment around with us, so have a tiny WiFi server (OpenMediaVault) hosting a 1TB disk, loaded up with our library of films and music. That way we can view them on phone or tablet, or cast to the TV, without being dependent on bandwidth or even the availability of 3G connection.

John M

07:49 PM   22-Apr-18

Auckland

Avocadopicker, yes that is the best and really only option other than DVDs.  

BHere in Europe we buy second hand DVDs for $2-4 each from markets and second hand charity shops.  As the majority of movies are made in English they usually have an English sound track.

John

Snowdonia

Dave_1

07:55 PM   27-Apr-18

Christchurch

Avacadopicker, I googled open Media Vault but didn't find anything. I am very interested in your setup. Is the 'server' a router? (Sorry for my ignorance). How does it communicate with the disk? Do you use Chromecast? Can you do it without using mobile data? Where do you find movies to download to your disk? Thanks in advance for your help 😊

Avocadopicker

10:06 PM   27-Apr-18

Katikati

OpenMediaVault is a piece of Linux-based software which also runs on a Raspberry Pi (RPi) platform - a very cheap tiny processor, which can be bought with a ready-made plastic box container, powered by a USB cable. You can find the (free) software package here: //www.openmediavault.org and you can download a readymade software package specifically for the RPi which then needs to be configured..... it's rather technical but the instructions downloadable from the Internet are very good. I've plugged a WD Elements 1TB USB-connected disk into the processor. You can connect the RPi to your network, either via cable or WiFi and then the little server shares the disk to your network. I have mine connected to my home network, running through my Netspeed router. When I hit the road in the motorhome I just shift router, RPi and disk into the van and there's my portable network and storage. The Netspeed router (Huawei B315, which pretty ubiquitous now) provides your WiFi hotspot so you can connect your phones/tablets/laptops etc to it easily and thus access the shared disk. Whilst at home you can download/copy music/films/ebooks etc onto your disk from whatever sources you have and take them with you. For example I have my whole CD collection stored so my music moves with me, likewise DVD films etc. The beauty of it is being able to have complete network setup seamlessly portable between home and motorhome. Of course any data consumed off the disk doesn't hit your mobile network at all - it's all done via WiFi or network cable.

Beetle2

02:56 PM   27-Oct-19

Christchurch

Maybe things have changed since this thread was last commented on. We have been downloading Netflix and Lightbox movies and series onto our Samsung Galaxy S8 phones since May 2019 and then playing them through the RSE TV that came with our 2016 Imala 730. (We first did it with an S5 Samsung but upgraded to get more memory). A "C" type to HDMI adaptor plugs into our phone  and is then plugged into a standard HDMI cable to the TV. The TV has an Aux out that with suitable cable plugs into the Aux IN terminal on the vehicle radio so we get surround sound if wanted. A slightly newer RSE TV than our will work via Bluetooth.  Our phones have a Skinny prepaid account at $16 per month and our rollover data just keeps increasing as we never seem to use the allocated 1.5Gb per month. Note that we only load the movies via Wifi either at home or the nearest library if on the road .

For the Galaxy S5, a USB type B to HDMI was needed but most phones with C type have HDMI output. I'm not sure about Iphones but would expect any more recent  models could be connected via a Lighting/HDMI adaptor. If you Google phones with HDMI or MHL output you should find a list of supported phones. 

We paid through the nose for a genuine Samsung C type to HDMI adaptor but for the second phone found a C type direct to HDMI cable at KMart for $15!

(You can obviously substitute a suitably specced laptop for a phone, download movies etc via Wifi and play via HDMI to TV. - no data needed.)

FUEL SAVINGS

by RSUP

[ 1 ]

RSUP

05:34 PM   25-Nov-17

Taupo

Members may wish to load the following app to their phones.

 

A collegue comment "I have been having great success with an app called "Gaspy"
finding diesel for a $1.21/l"


https://www.facebook.com/gaspyapp/

Cost of Water Ingress, Check Fiat Topic on Water Ingress

by Les

[ 19 ]

Les

01:23 PM   17-Nov-17

Tuakau

Chris Gaelic

09:34 PM   11-Nov-17

Auckland

Just a little more incentive to those who maybe can't be bothered, or don't feel comfortable in sorting out the problem of water getting into the engine bay.

 

We've owned our Delaware for 4.5 years, and in the last year, the following repairs are all likely to have been the result of water damage:

 

Replace faulty map sensor: $1,251
Replace glow plugs (corroded into the engine block): $1,438
Replace control unit for the airbags: $895
Replace engine control module: $4,435
Total: $6,684

 

It took over 3 years before the water ingress started creating problems for us. So, if you're thinking that this might not apply to you...

tracker

03:20 PM   17-Nov-17

Auckland

Hi Les,

We had a similar problem a few weeks ago with our 2013 Tracker FB. We got a fuel injector warning light and took it to Italian Auto Centre in AKLD. Water was getting into the engine through the troughs that sit below the windscreen. The drains that take the water away down the side of the engine were blocked with leaves and the water was building up and dripping through to the engine and landing on top of the fuel injector connection.

 

We park our van at the side of the house under some trees and these troughs are often full of leaves, my solution is to turn the hose on full and blast them out with a strong jet of water. So, I was probably making it worse.

There is a bit of corrosion on the engine block which the mechanics have treated, the injectors seem OK but who knows what damaged has been done. We were lucky as they didn't have to touch anything except new clips and sealant around the bottom of the windscreen - at a few hundred dollars.

 

This morning I was making a tarpaulin that covers the windscreen and engine cover - in future I will vacuum out any leaves. I would recommend other members have a look and see if there are any signs of corrosion and make sure the drain pipes are clear

regards

Jack

Ian

11:57 PM   17-Nov-17

Tasmania

Our 2017 Autotrail Imala 730 with the new wiper scuttle design was leaking water onto the engine also.  Had an injector alarm occur and FIAT's 'Truck Assist' roadside service suggested it was caused by water ingress but was under the impression the new scuttle fixed most issues.  When I compared with other Fiat Ducato's I realised the scuttle was distorted near the middle allowing a reasonable gap to the windscreen.  I used tape around the scuttle/windscreen as a temporary measure which eliminated the problem.  I took it to the service agents in Launceston, Tas (Toyota) and they agreed the scuttle plastic was distorted and will replace under warranty which is scheduled for next week.  Due to moisture inside the windscreen on frosty mornings I decided to buy an external windscreen solar blanket which also covers the bonnet vents and stops any water entering while parked up too. Pic attached.  Regards IanG

RSUP

09:02 AM   18-Nov-17

Taupo

Nice looking cover where did you buy it from?

Ian

11:12 AM   18-Nov-17

Tasmania

Its called a NRF external thermal blind which I purchased from SolarScreen (//www.solarscreen.com.au/) based in Carina, Queensland.  Very happy with it, easy to use simple to fit and made in Italy by NRF (//www.nrfcamper.it/eng/products/index).  It has elastic band which slips over top corner of door and another which clips near the door handle plus a velcro fitting around the mirror, fits like a glove.

Certainly stops the sun from heating the cabin.  Internally our MH has the Remis blind system which is great in blocking light but has no thermal characteristics.  Nicely diverts water from the windscreen/scuttle area too.  Regards IanG

RSUP

01:42 PM   18-Nov-17

Taupo

Thanks Ian, I am certainly going to buy one and one for a friend Allan

Les

03:42 PM   18-Nov-17

Tuakau

Hi, I also would be interested for the cab cover I don't now if you would like to get an extra. Les

RSUP

04:49 PM   18-Nov-17

Taupo

Sure Les,

I will check on the cost and shipping arrangements, my brother is going over to Quessland soon, could be cheap freight Lol .

Allan

geebeealan

04:52 PM   18-Nov-17

Kaiapoi

This is what we brought in UK also keeps one warm in winter taken at Hamner Springs

Cover is now fitted to Tracker FB

Sue

05:03 PM   18-Nov-17

Christchurch

Wow, this cover looks fab and way better than a tarp in Welly winds.  I will order one also, have previously purchased the interior screens for winter, solar screen are a great company to deal with, highly recommend.

John M

11:26 AM   20-Nov-17

Auckland

That is very reasonable, I paid about $350 here in the U.K. for a popular Yorkshire brand.  However very few European screen covers address the water ingress issue, i.e. few people know of the issue and the covers don't extend over the trough.  I have seen just one guy making obvious efforts to cover the water trough with a plastic sheet pushed up under his screen cover to extend it.

 

I shall suggest though that the screen cover needs to have a pull down flap to "open" the windscreen for daytime use.  Removing the cover is a PIA as the height of the doors makes it an effort for many people to fit the covers, especially when on ramps.  Realise that in Europe these screen covers are mainly to keep the night temperatures comfortable in the van.

 

John

Costa Blanca 

Rovin Robbie's

01:02 PM   20-Nov-17

Invercargill

I have also ordered my NRF cover. The agent was great to speak to & my cover is now on the way. Thanks to all those that contributed to this subject and to you Les for providing the direct dial phone number. Very much appreciated. 

Cheers, Ray. 

Boltman

05:39 PM   21-Nov-17

Whangarei

Just ordered a cover.

i was told only 1 left.

Cheers Glenn

Mike & Chris

03:19 PM   05-Dec-17

North Canterbury

Arrived yesterday so good chance to test it's effectiveness in todays almost 35 degrees... worked great.

 

 

 

John_1

11:39 AM   11-Dec-17

Tauranga

Been in contact with them and they are sold out till Feb 2018. Thank goodness summer is here so hopefully no rain.

RSUP

11:36 AM   27-Feb-18

Taupo

Ian can you send me your email at ics.ltd@xtra.co.nz

ColinB

09:25 AM   02-Nov-18

Tauranga

 

Purchased this on the 22/10  from Ebay UK seller pioneerleisureukltd  Fiamma Coverglas XL for Ducato Shade/Protector end cost with shipping to NZ was NZD $333 but considering the cost of the Comanche I consider it peace of mind even though the dealer assured me ingress problem has been addressed cannot be to careful with your home

RolandM

06:43 PM   03-Nov-18

Tauranga

Yes gives added warmth as well. And covers like this are available in Palmerston North from “DYMX” . Great covers, nice people to deal with, UV stabilized for NZ , cost $350, these have fold down Centre section to provide a view when parked up without removal of cover.

Graham and Laurel

08:57 AM   08-Sep-19

Masterton

We have one of the covers made by DYMX as well. Works very well and no condensation on the inside of the windscreen when parked up

Cost of running a motorhome

by Chris Gaelic

[ 6 ]

Chris Gaelic

01:09 PM   23-Oct-17

After getting another significant repair bill for our Delaware, I've gone through all my service and running costs to work out what these beasts really cost to own. Just for good measure, I've factored in the anticipated depreciation covering the 4.5 years that we've owned it. 

 

Service and repair cost per km $0.22
Diesel cost + RUC cost per km $0.26
Depreciation over 4.5 years and 60,000 km $0.50
Total cost per km $0.98

 

 

So, going away in our Delaware costs us around a dollar a km before adding in food, drink, gas and campsites.

 

That's the bad news! However, it's worth comparing it with the alternative of driving your own car and staying in motels. The following is for a 30 day holiday spent travelling around either the North or South Island.

 

 

Motorhome (mostly freedom camping)
Running cost: $1,960
Gas (refill every 5 days): $156
Food and drink (including some eating out): $500
Campsites (5 nights): $200
Total Cost: $2,816

 

Motels and our own car
Running cost (typical of my old Honda Accord): $900
Motels (average $120 per night): $3,600
Food (mostly eating in motel room): $1,500
Total Cost: $6,000

 

So, the good news is, that even though motorhoming is not cheap, it's still way cheaper than staying in motels.

 

Happy motorhoming!! 

Les

01:20 PM   23-Oct-17

Tuakau

Hi chris, That's very interesting... I'll stick to motorhoming. LES

Mike & Chris

05:09 PM   23-Oct-17

North Canterbury

Hi Chris

 

If everyone on here was a beancounter the membership would be very small indeed so I'm glad its not about the money. What I am interested in though is why your Delaware has cost over $13000 in repairs and maintenance in such a short time. Considering that initially it would have been under warranty that seems like an exorbitant amount of money... in two years and 8000kms I have had one home service at less than $300 and one warranty item (fridge) fixed for free. What have I got to look forward to!!

RSUP

05:30 PM   23-Oct-17

Taupo

It does not take long to add up, we have done 13,000 kl in 3 years. 1. Annual service is around $500k x 3 2. Replace glow plugs $1500 3. Replacement truck battery $600 4. Replacement leisure battery $350

Chris Gaelic

05:59 PM   23-Oct-17

Hi Mike & Chris, Our Delaware was 12 months old when I bought it, so there was only another 12 months of the 2 year Fiat international warranty. Service costs at Andrew Simms is not cheap, and added up to around $4,500 in the 4.5 years that we've owned it. The rest is for replacing glow plugs that were corroded in place, a diff axle seal, plus front and rear disks and pads. The big one was replacing the turbo, which failed just over a year ago.

 

Bear in mind, we've added over 60,000 km to the original 12,000 when we purchased it - which is way more than your 8000 km. Also, the new models include a 5 year warranty on the Fiat, which would have made a significant difference our costs.

 

I posted the above figures as a general guide based on our experience. If you leave depreciation out, and factor in a 5 year Fiat warranty, then the service costs drop down to around 8 cents per km, which is quite small compared to the 26 cents per km for diesel and RUC. 34 cents per km is cheap motoring for any vehicle (except electric!).

 

We've loved the opportunity that motorhoming has given us for exploring all the nooks and crannies around our country. Plus we've made some great friends along the way. Worth every cent...

 

 

 

 

Chris Gaelic

11:19 AM   28-Jul-20

It's almost 3 years later so I thought an update is in order. We've now got 100,000 km on the clock, so depreciation is no longer such a big factor. And our Fiat engine is now proving to be almost trouble free, so our servicing and repair costs are significantly less. This is especially the case since changing from Andrew Simms to Italian Auto Centre in Otahuhu. 

 

So, now our cost per km has dropped to between 40 and 50 cents. 

Living full time in a motorhome

by Peacebrother

[ 2 ]

Peacebrother

04:24 PM   04-Mar-17

Auckland

Are there folks who could tell me what living full time in a motorhome is like? Any tips thoughts and comments would be most appreciated. Thanking you. JohnR

lbh

03:24 PM   05-Mar-17

Whangamata

Do it. Don't over think it. If you read my thread below on leisure batteries, make sure you have plenty of juice. I don't. There are lots and lots of people on the road, so you are never alone!!

Overnight in Wellington

by Ricky & Libby

[ 5 ]

Ricky & Libby

07:20 AM   13-Jan-17

Queenstown

Hi just wondering if anybody has a recommendation to park/camp overnight in Wellington we are members of nzmca

but it seems they don't have anything yet? 

Thanks for you help

 

Mike & Chris

08:57 AM   13-Jan-17

North Canterbury

We stayed at the Evans Bay Marina last summer, it was the nearest stop for an early morning ferry departure. Thought it might be a bit noisy but it worked fine and only a few minutes from the ferry terminal.

Geeco

05:41 PM   19-Mar-17

NSW Australia

There is an article in a recent issue of iMotorhome NZ on this very topic. If you are not aware of this publication it is a free download. There is an AU version and both are good reads.

Chris Gaelic

05:56 PM   19-Mar-17

Evans Bay has worked well for us (free!) and you can also stay at the Te Papa carpark for between $12 and $24, depending on how long you stay. Te Papa is about as close as you can get to the ferry, and it's cheaper than the nearest campsite.

Stuffr

11:31 AM   07-Jan-18

Christchurch

Petone Working mens club is great. 15 minutes to ferry $10 a night with power. You can use facilities at club when open.

Netspeed WiFi

by Chris Gaelic

[ 2 ]

Chris Gaelic

11:09 AM   08-Nov-16

Following on from our Kaponga Rally, I ordered a Netspeed WiFi router and have been astonished at how good it is compared with what I had before. Broadband access is important for us as I run my web design business while on the road, and Shuping likes to stay in contact with friends and family around the world. These are the basic stats:

 

PREVIOUS

 - 100 GB per month home broadband - cost $77 per month

 - 10 GB per month mobile Spark open plan - $100 per month

 

NOW

 - 120 GB (+ 50 GB offpeak) per month Netspeed Rural Broadband plan - $100 per month

 - 4 GB per month base Spark open plan = $56 per month

 

So, we're getting more data (especially while on the road), have backup mobile data when out of range of the router,

and we're spending $21 less each month. We might even get better coverage, but haven't tested that yet.

 

BUT, I did a speed comparison, and the best I could do with my home broadband (copper wire) was 10 Mbps. Netspeed is giving me around 40 Mbps while at home in Auckland. That is a serious WOW!! Of course, that's likely to vary as we travel around the county, but it's still amazingly impressive.

 

So, thank you Les for bringing this option up. The NZMCA data option should also be a good solution - but won't give the same data speeds.

Chris Gaelic

10:45 AM   23-Sep-17

Just a quick update as I've found out that I can also port our landline phone number across to Netspeed, which means that it can travel with us as well as being available at home. The extra cost is $20 per month, and I've cancelled the Spark landline.

Motorhome touring in New Zealand

by Theresa

[ 7 ]

Theresa

03:19 AM   04-Aug-16

Doncaster

A big hello to everyone. I am live in the UK, we have an Autotrail Cherokee, Ihave made very brief enquiries about shipping to New Zealand, but it seems quite complicated and expensive. My sister lives in Rotorua, Ihave never seen her since she left and I am desperate to come over to see her and do some touring. Ideally I would spend time with her , tour around, spend time again with her before returning, as obviously she still works and I am retired , so time for me is no problem. So has anyone any idea how much a Motorhome would be to hire , I or would it be cheaper to ship my own over, or maybe there is a pissibility of doing a swap with someone if they wish to tour the UK,  Thankyou everyone for reading, any ideas appreciated, Iam 65 in December and if I don't see my sister soon I fear it will be too late.

Onlinesteve

10:58 AM   04-Aug-16

Cromwell

Retired. We came to NZ nearly 3 years ago brought our new Delaware with us and lived in it for the first 2 years. To make a better assessment. How old is your motorhome, would you plan to sell at the end of your visit, how long do you intend to stay in NZ before returning to UK, when do you plan to arrive

geebeealan

11:17 AM   04-Aug-16

Kaiapoi

Sugest that you contact the below re import he can also sell for you

Alan

 

Paul Graveling

Castle European Limited

Tauranga, New Zealand

Telephone: +64 7 5481112      Fax: + 64 7 5481174      Mobile: +64 211570047

Email: Paul@castle-european.com       Website: www.castle-european.com

Mike & Chris

11:39 AM   04-Aug-16

North Canterbury

Good moaning Theresa

 

I would say that it is definately "pissible"... my apologies to Officer Crabtree from "Nipples"

Onlinesteve

02:09 PM   04-Aug-16

Cromwell

Yes, we used Castle-European to import our Delaware. 

Ross Knight

01:35 PM   02-Apr-17

Auckland

Hi Has any body got experience of the Coromandel NZCMA site at this time of the year, April 2017 re grass parking and not wanting to get stuck in the site.

 

David Buxton

05:52 PM   02-Apr-17

Taupo

I suggest you phone the Coromandel iSite and ask them if there could be any problems with wetness. 

Filling up at Truck Stops

by Chris Gaelic

[ 5 ]

Chris Gaelic

11:26 AM   03-Nov-15

Does anyone know if we can use the truck stops for refuelling with diesel? I've been told that they pump diesel more rapidly, and can blow back if the fuel intake is not designed for it. I've never tried, but now see that FnF fuel cards offer a bigger discount if refuelling at truck stops.

Les

11:53 AM   03-Nov-15

Tuakau

In most cases truck stop fueling depots have a high and low setting switch on the side of the pump, I use the regularly Mobil & Shell

Sandy Dougherty

06:40 AM   04-Nov-15

Cambridge

Good to see this conversation, we have used these and had no problem.. 

Chris, I am not getting emails to the forums I have subscribed to. I used to. Is there something I am doing wrong?

Stuffr

02:37 PM   07-Jan-18

Christchurch

Hi Chris, you can use all of the truck stops. Look for the smaller nozzles when you pull up. These still pump faster than normal but will auto shut off if it fills too fast. Just pull the trigger less to pump less fast. Cheers Nigel

Chris Gaelic

09:23 AM   08-Jan-18

And the truck stops can be way cheaper!

 

Diesel prices

 

Copied from my Kiwi Fuels statement

MOTORHOME IMPORTING PRIVATELY

value

by Mikew

[ 1 ]

Mikew

01:46 PM   31-May-23

hi everyone were thnkig of selling our 2013 Dakota, leather seats 200l fresh/waste 62000km all set to go

any ideas onthe price we should ask thanks mike

Post Covid Shipping rates

by JBE

[ 3 ]

JBE

08:49 AM   18-Jul-21

PIcton

Good morning all. We're new to Auto Trail forum. Sometime next year we're thiking of heading to UK/ Europe for a 6 month holiday and to watch a son who plays professional rugby in France. We looked at importing a Motor Home or Caravan from the UK 3-4 years ago, when we last thought about heading off for a long trip. Since Covid, and especially this year, international shipping rates have gone through the roof. Does anyone have any current experience with shipping a motor home or caravan from UK? 

ZK-RMM

05:03 PM   19-Aug-21

Auckland

Hi all,

My Autotrail Grand Frontier 80 has just arrived in Auckland after being on order for exactly one year to the day,

I'm very pleased it was worth the wait.

I understand this is the first one in NZ ,I imported it myself.

cheers

Richard Martin

ZK-RMM

05:32 PM   19-Aug-21

Auckland

Hi JBE,

My RORO shipping freight with WW was less than two years ago $9898-00,this for an autotrail 8.07 in length 

cheers 

Richard Martin

Changes from UK to NZ

by Linda

[ 5 ]

Linda

12:21 PM   24-Feb-21

Hi im looking at bringing an Apache autotrail back from the Uk but dont have any knowledge on what changes may need to be made eg.electrical, gas fittings, watre storage. 

i imagine it maybe more cost-effective to do these changes in the UK before importing...has anyone got some helpful tips or relevant sites i should visit.

many thanks

Linda

Avocadopicker

12:46 PM   24-Feb-21

Katikati

Hi Linda, I've privately imported four Autotrails. I would absolutely not recommend having the mods done in the UK. They don't have any understanding of the standards required for NZ. The water, gas, electrical requirements in NZ are different from the UK's. You'll be much better off getting the various compliance works done here. Is your Apache new? If not you'll also have to satisfy MAF fumigation requirements - that bit does get done in the UK at great expense. When you get the van here there's loads of expertise to help you get the right compliances.

Linda

10:06 AM   26-Feb-21

Hi thank you for your reply.

yes it would be new. would that still allow us to use it in UK before we bought it back to NZ ?

what are the different compilance issues ?

Avocadopicker

10:37 AM   26-Feb-21

Katikati

Hi Linda, NZ has some very specific rules about self-containment which you must comply with via a current self-containment certificate, obtainable in NZ, the UK has none, and without modifications your UK-sourced vehicle will not comply. The changes are not hard to do or get done, but you have to do them (if you want to freedom camp, or use NZMCA or DOC campsites)  NZ has very specific rules about electrical standards for motorhomes, which are different to the UK's, and your vehicle must have a current NZ electrical warrant of fitness in order to connect legally to the mains in NZ (and most campsites, if not all, will insist). NZ gas bottles have different connections to the UK ones, which must be fitted and certified (as well as any gas-fuelled devices, such as stove, fridge, hot water system) by an authorised gas fitter in NZ. Last time I checked, a brand new vehicle from the UK was allowed in without fumigation, whereas if the vehicle had been in certain (specified by MPI) countries they can insist that it's fumigated before it even goes dockside in the UK - you would need to check with your shipping company (and probably MPI) before attempting to ship. The NZMCA site has lots of information about self-containment, as well as electrical and gas certifications. I hope this doesn't sound too heavy-handed - actually it's all fairly well documented and straightforward, just not really optional!

 

https://www.nzmca.org.nz/certified-self-containment-csc

https://www.nzmca.org.nz/gas/lpg-faqs

https://www.nzmca.org.nz/electrical-inspections

 

These will get you started - and this forum's pretty useful too......

RSUP

11:04 AM   26-Feb-21

Taupo

Making an freshly imported AutoTrail electrically compliant to NZ standrds is not an issue.

 

The transportable structure (Motorhome) first has to be checked to part 1 of AS/NZS3000 for safety before being inspected/tested to AS/NZS3001.

 

I use socket outlet with internal switches.  Some conversions i have seen are rather "agricutural" with mount blocks and NZ sockets being installed.

Phone me if you require additional free professitional advice 021 613 448 I2469

Calling Tracker owners - advice needed

by Avocadopicker

[ 1 ]

Avocadopicker

09:52 AM   30-Sep-20

Katikati

Hi, I have a friend who wants to import a new Tracker LB. He would like to talk to someone who currently has one to get a better feel for what he should look out for. If anyone is interested/able to provide some input, please call Malcolm Box on 021 994 790. Thanks

Tomtom Upgrade

by Jim and Jill

[ 4 ]

Jim and Jill

03:09 PM   11-Aug-20

Hamilton

We purchased our Apache 634 in the Uk in 2018, used it for 7 months around Europe then shipped it home.

It still has the Europe maps in the Tomtom and we are looking to get the NZ maps installed.

Would appreciate any recommendations/suggestions regards anyone who does this.

We live in Hamilton which would be preferable but Auckland or Bay of Plenty would work just as well.

Online info suggests that it can be done by downloading then uploading the purchased maps to the Tomtom but the info on this isn't consistent.

Has anyone had success with this way of doing it?

 

Avocadopicker

03:52 PM   11-Aug-20

Katikati

If you've got the Fiat radio, then the bad news is:they have never produced NZ/Aus maps for this device. You'll need to either replace the radio, or use a separate SatNav device.

Mike & Chris

10:22 AM   12-Aug-20

North Canterbury

This has just reminded me that I was chatting to a fellow Autotrail owner at Plimmerton a couple of months ago and he told me that he had found a way to load NZ maps onto the Fiat Tom Tom. I see that Shaun has now joined this group so perhaps he will be read this and tell all.

Geeco

04:53 PM   12-Aug-20

NSW Australia

I purchased a 2015 Tracker FB from the local importer here in AU. I was told that there were no maps available for AU/NZ for that year model. I was also told for that reason AT did not have the GPS fitted to AU bound models that year. I also understand that approx 2 years later AU bound vehicles were fitted with a GPS as AU/NZ maps becameavailable. I am not sure of the reason why the maps were not available as pre 2015 models did have AU maps. My local Fiat Professional guy suggested there was some issue between Fiat & Tom Tom. 2015 models in AU were the first of the 295 model Ducatos identified by the different headlights and new cabin decore from AT that deleted the blue insert in the seats. A little confusing I know but that is the story as it was told to me.cheers Gary.

Fumigation for BMSB

by Kev and Lo

[ 2 ]

Kev and Lo

08:49 PM   19-Feb-20

Hi all.  Does anyone on the Forum have experience with getting their motorhome fumigated in the UK for the BMSB?  We are looking at importing a motorhome before the Brexit transition closes the window to using it in the EU (which will happen 31/12/20) and are keen to find out if anyone has done this since the fumigation requirement.  Thanks.

Avocadopicker

09:12 PM   19-Feb-20

Katikati

We had it done by Rentokil near Southampton. As far as I know they're the only company who can do a certified job which will satisfy MPI requirements. Last time we did it (2017) it cost for a Delaware-sized vehicle) about GBP2000, however when we self-imported a brand new Delaware in 2019 fumigation wasn't required.

LPG underfloor tank

by Paul_2

[ 2 ]

Paul_2

10:05 PM   25-Apr-19

Auckland

I’m just about to import a new Tribute 680 from the UK. I’ve been told that the 25litre underfloor LPG tank will not be certified in NZ and that I will have to have new gas lines installed, a compartment built to take a LPG cylinder, and that I’ll probably only be able to fit a 4.5kg cylinder in the space created under one of the rear bench seats. I’ve not read too many stories about UK Tribute vans exploding because of problems with the LPG tank, so it seems crazy to me that they won’t be certified in NZ. Does anyone have any information for me on this issue. Thanks. Paul

Col

02:34 PM   03-Jan-20

Porirua

Hi Paul,

Yes we're in the same position with our imported VLine unit. Crazy that NZ hasn't caught up with the play in getting certification in place. It seemed safe enough over there.

cheers

Colin 

importation

by Dick_1

[ 1 ]

Dick_1

07:55 PM   25-Jul-18

Qld

Has anybody been caught in the last three years trying to import using Mr Stewert Clay

Shipping Information

by Jim and Jill

[ 16 ]

Jim and Jill

04:04 PM   21-Jan-18

Hamilton

This is our first post since joining the Autotrail Members Forum. Firstly we are so impressed with the forum and the info available. It has helped our process hugely. We have purchased an Apache 634 and are due to pick it up in England the first week of May. Have finally sourced insurance (what a mission) and now starting to look at getting it shipped home next January. Does anyone have any recommendations/experience with shipping companies/agents that would be helpful. In our brief look at this so far there seems to be quite a discrepancy in the prices quoted by various companies so any suggestions gratefully accepted.

Avocadopicker

04:49 PM   21-Jan-18

Katikati

Talk to Aimée Blandford at Wallenius in Southampton. You won't get a better deal than from the actual shipping company.

geebeealan

04:52 PM   21-Jan-18

Kaiapoi

Craig Stapleton 3
027 5176853
09 3739801

all of the charges can be paid in NZ when it arrives

If you contact the above he will be able to help I have used him several times to import motorhomes

any thing else please ask

 

Alan

MarkRoaming

04:57 PM   21-Jan-18

Autohub.co.nz

$9600 excl GST (just landed (7.06M long) so bear in mind exchange rates will alter this figure) 

This includes insurance, customs etc, Southampton dock to Auckland dock

$180 excl GST to deliver to VINZ Mt Wellinton for compliance

Martin T

04:58 PM   21-Jan-18

Upper Moutere

We imported our Apache 634 in December 2016.After lots of research we used McCullough, specifically Joe Steele, joe@mmnz.biz. We (and therefore Joe) were messed around with delivery dates and DVLA admin issues in the UK. Joe was brilliant, making all necessary changes, arranged for the camper to be taken for its WOF (mot) and liaised with the guy managed our compliance as we live in Nelson. Good price too. Highly recommended.

Terry

10:17 PM   21-Jan-18

McCullough , Joe Steele worked for us , car and motor home. Cannot fault the service. 

Jim and Jill

02:44 PM   22-Jan-18

Hamilton

Many thanks for all the advice.

Martin T

11:30 PM   22-Jan-18

Upper Moutere

Just a thought: are you aware that as an Apache 634 has 4 berths it must have 4 fitted seat belts or be reduced to two birth before it can be registered in NZ? We opted to remove the overcab bed which is very easy. This approach has the benefit of providing safe and dry storage space for bikes!

tracker

12:43 PM   24-Jan-18

Auckland

We brought our new Tracker FB from the UK to NZ a few years ago.

We used Castle European (Paul Graveling) who organised absolutely everything.

He liaised with the Autotrail agent in the UK and we got a phone call to come and collect our new motor home.

There is so much to organise if you are trying to do it yourselves, it may be slightly more expensive but you eliminate all the hassles and most of us don’t even know what’s required.

John t

02:38 PM   24-Jan-18

Napier

I imported a new autotrail imala  it arrived in Auckland in september 2017, importing it was so simple no hassels at all,with it fully complied on road, self containment,electrical,and gas certification fiat warranty .ended up over 13000 dollars cheaper than the price i got from Casstle European 

tracker

09:44 AM   25-Jan-18

Auckland

Hi John,

That $13k more expensive through Castle European is a surprise, we thought their fee was very reasonable for the work they did.

Elliot

09:47 AM   25-Jan-18

$13k more than doing it all yourself you mean?  Paul's fee isnt that much so I am surprised ... what else was marked up? (I ask because I'll probably be using Paul in due course)

Thanks

 

tracker

11:03 AM   25-Jan-18

Auckland

Hi Elliot,

It cost us about $9k for shipping+insurance and another $10k for all the local charges including Paul's fee, gas, electrical, sel-containment, port charges. RUC, rego etc.

He also organised for a solar panel, Satellite TV, reversing camera to be fitted which we paid seperately.

Obviously, the Customs GST & Duty are not included here as they are related to which vehicle you are importing.

Elliot

11:14 AM   25-Jan-18

Thanks for this.

I'm importing a Delaware in a few months - after we have imported ourselves :)

I've had a quote off Paul and I agree his fees seem reasonable for the "stuff" he has to do...on face value at least, I am sure if you know what you're doing it would be cheaper to DIY but I don't and I don't want to mess up!

John t

04:19 PM   25-Jan-18

Napier

Yes 13000dollars is correct, my exchange rate was the same as castle european, I used Castle European 3 years ago to import a motorhome for me. And thought i would do it myself this time ,My new imala 734 was purchased by me directly from westcountry motorhomes in the Uk,I used shipmonk in the Uk for shipping, picked it up in Auckland in September 2017 fully complied from vtnz, got gas cert,electrical cert,self containment done in my home town.westcountry motorhomes got in touch with shipping agent shipmonk and arranged everythink.customs clearance was all done by shipmonk agent in Nz....no hassels at all so very easy, I am bringing another new  Autotrail motorhome  from Westcountry motorhomes into the country for a friend,its arrival is March

Jim and Jill

08:50 PM   29-Apr-18

Hamilton

Tuesday we head to London for the start of our big adventure...seven months touring Europe in our brand new Apache 634.

 

Would just like to say thankis to everyone who has responded to our queries as we have navigated the tricky waters of private motorhome importing and touring Europe.

While we have owned a motorhome previously (just sold it a couple of weeks ago) this is our first foray into Autotrail ownership so all your help has been invaluable.

 

It is a great site and everyone contributes such worthwhile information...it is really impressive.
 

Just a quick shout out to West Country Motor Homes in the Uk (particularly Steve Taylor). Right from day 1 he has been a gem to deal with;really helpful and full of information and most imnportantly his communication has been first class. We recommend him highly.

 

Will be back in late November...hoperfully knowing  an awful lot more about Autotrails and touring Europe than we do now. Cant wait for it to being.

Regards

Jim and Jill

 

 

GAS Conversion/Certificate

by Joyce

[ 3 ]

Joyce

04:49 PM   11-Jan-18

Tauranga

Hi There, I have asked before but no one seems to be able to tell me where I can obtain a Gas compliance certificate around the Turanga Area. Is there anyone out there who can help?    Many Thanks.

geebeealan

05:22 PM   11-Jan-18

Kaiapoi

Try below he will know who to use

 

Paul Graveling

Castle European Limited

Tauranga, New Zealand

Telephone: +64 7 5481112      Fax: + 64 7 5481174      Mobile: +64 211570047

 

Krauts

08:43 PM   23-Apr-18

Tauranga

Ashby gas will come to your home in Tauranga and certify on the spot, change and supply new regulator etc. Very fair price.

Phone 021416225

Fumigation

by Avocadopicker

[ 5 ]

Avocadopicker

05:47 AM   07-Sep-17

Katikati

Just FYI for those would-be self-importers. Our Delaware was (today) refused entry to the docks as it had travelled through Italy. The bill for certified fumigation to eradicate the remote possibility of Brown Marmorated Stink Bug travelling with the van: £2070! Priceless..... so if you travel through Italy and bring your van back to NZ there is now a non-negotiable extra cost. Just sayin'

MarkRoaming

08:56 AM   07-Sep-17

Holy smoke, thanks for the heads up, that's expensive beyond belief!

 

Apparently it has been reported in Switzerland, Italy, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary and Romania.

 

See https://easin.jrc.ec.europa.eu/NewsAndEvents/DetailNews/cb464db4-77c3-4701-ac3d-9219ba8373c1?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1

 

Note: I rang MPI and asked if Italy is the only country they are concerned about and also if their website could show what countries are on their list.  They said Italy is the only country so far on the list and they don't advertise what countries are to be avoided because some people will tell porkies when it comes to what countries they have visited.

 

 

Elliot

05:52 AM   03-Oct-17

I hope this bug doesnt make it to the UK! is that £ or $ ? you said £2070 ... ouch!!!!

Avocadopicker

06:58 AM   03-Oct-17

Katikati

Yes, that was pounds!

Avocadopicker

01:36 PM   04-Sep-18

Katikati

A further fyi... MPI have now extended the list of 'actionable' countries to include most of Europe. This implies (you'll need to check further) that if you visit any of these countries with your nice new motorhome, you'll have to get fumigated before you'll be allowed to land it here (or even get it onto the docks of your port of departure).

1. Austria
2. Bulgaria
3. France
4. Georgia
5. Germany
6. Greece
7. Hungary
8. Italy
9. Liechtenstein
10. Romania
11. Russia
12. Serbia
13. Slovenia
14. Spain
15. Switzerland
16. United States of America

 

 

See https://www.mpi.govt.nz/importing/other/vehicles-and-machinery/requirements/brown-marmorated-stink-bug-requirements/ for further details

Questions From A UK Kiwi

by Les

[ 5 ]

Les

06:58 PM   07-Aug-17

Tuakau

Hi Auto Trail owners /enthusiast. I joined your forum several months back as a Kiwi living in the UK who wants to have a motorhome to use when we are back in NZ visiting family. I am now due to retire and am in the process of self-importing a new 2017 highline Tracker FB through Castle European. The forum has been really helpful thus far but also daunting to read of concerns and frustrations especially with regards to self-imports and warranty issues. We are about to visit the dealer, Steve Taylor of West Country Motorhomes to inspect our Tracker before it’s shipped later this month. Castle European of Tauranga are handling the shipping arrangements and work related to the vehicle being drive-away NZ compliant when we arrive. I do have a few queries though and would appreciate comments or advice from those who have had recent experience of importing or ownership of the Euro 6 Ducatos. My queries are; • Are the vehicles supplied with 2 sets of keys? • What is the current situation regarding seat belts? The Tracker being a highline is regarded as a 6 berth and we have gone for the HD layout to have 2 seat belts for the Grandchildren but certainly don’t want to be having to fit a further 2 belts. Obviously there would be weight issues as well potentially with 6 travelling even though we have ordered a 3650kg chassis. • In reading forum comments from “Avocadopicker” he’s made reference to having a UK Savvy dealer? I’m keen to know what that constitutes and what I should expect from mine? • With regards to the correct Engine oil, I’ll be checking to see that the Handbook is Print Number. 603.91.187 – 03/2017- 3rd edition and specifies the correct oil, and thank you Les for your valuable information on this. Any suggestions where to buy the correct oil for the Euro 6 engine would be appreciated given that these engines are supposedly designed to use a litre or so every 600 miles. • Fitting a bicycle rack to the rear wall of the new Trackers is not advised by Auto Trail so my thoughts are to fit a cycle rack that’s extended out from the chassis. Has anyone done this and as the vehicle is COF I’m assuming it’s not something I myself am legally allowed to make and fit? That given can anyone suggest a Canterbury based Engineer to make and fit a compliant rack? • I would also like to fit a second house battery and solar panel so suggestions on who in the Canterbury region to use for this would also be appreciated. • LPG cylinders, can anyone tell me what size NZ cylinders will fit into the Tracker locker? • Finally, insurance; which company have owners found helpful and what is the likely annual cost for no claims history cover on a Tracker? Phew, that’s me done. Thanks in anticipation of your responses, UK Kiwi. 

Avocadopicker

07:19 PM   07-Aug-17

Katikati

Hi UK Kiwi, my 'UK Savvy' dealer (Dolphin Motorhomes in Southampton) have just done quite a few exports, so know the ropes regarding the requisite paperwork (which isn't all that difficult anyway) and also have provided me with good aftermarket support even at a distance. You get two sets of keys, but only one remote-keyfob-key. Shell Helix 0w-30w is good for oil We have the (Witter, UK-supplied-and-fitted, which we will need to get certified in NZ) towbar fitted on our 2017 Delaware with towbar-mounted bike rack - works OK although it's rather low so increases likelihood of grounding. Replacement insurance, see discussion elsewhere - suggesting AA Plus is a good deal.

MarkRoaming

05:23 PM   08-Aug-17

Hi

Congratulations on your new Tracker and reaching retirement age!

Paul Gravelling will handle all your compliance but we found the 6 berth van requires 6 seatbelts issue alarming at first.  There is a discussion on this - use "berth" as your search to find it.

In our case we only wanted 4 seatbelts so a chat with the NZ compliance people allowed us to certify a HiLine as 4 berth simply by "removing" 2 of the berths - a tabletop removed from the van.    If 6 are travelling in the van then 6 seatbelts will be required.  Again there is forum advice on cost to add more seatbelts - not cheap.

 

There are advantages for COF vs WOF.  We went for WOF because cheaper, first is for 3 years, can drive using std drivers license, extra checks for COF - extra cost.  BUT can easily exceed weight if restricted to 3,500kg.

 

Our dealer fitted a 4 bike rack to rear of Tribute T-720 no questions or concerns raised.  This doesn't mean it's a good idea but just saying.  UK dealer do the first habitation check so should be ok?

 

Again our dealer fitted extra house battery and solar panel, I'd be checking cost benefit b4 fitting in NZ.  Our dealer didn't connect up 2nd battery so you might need to ask for this.

 

Agree with AA as best priced insurance with lowest excess combo. 

 

 

 

geebeealan

05:41 PM   08-Aug-17

Kaiapoi

To overcome the seat belt problem screw the lounge seats so they cannot be pulled out which then gives you 4 berths 4 seat belts  also make sure that you have a PDI done buy the supplying dealer in U.K.  When on the road in NZ contact Fait NZ and get the warranty active

UK KIWI

09:07 AM   18-Aug-17

Canterbury

Thank you all for your comments and suggestions. We visited our dealer last Friday which enabled us to check over the things we were most anxious about. We now won't see the Tracker until mid November in Tauranga. This forum continues to be a fantastic support so thank you again to those of you who responded as well as those of you who keep posting queries or responses, I think this forum is fantastic!!!!!

Auto-Trail Self Import

by ChrisB

[ 5 ]

ChrisB

03:07 PM   17-Jul-15

New Plymouth

We have just returned from a trip to the UK where we purchased and holidayed in a 2015 Apache 634.  This is now being shipped back to NZ and will arrive in 6 weeks time.  So far the process has been straight forward and we have scheduled the conversions and certification work to be done when it arrives in NZ.  We are also looking for some guidance on a couple of items which we still need to work through.

- What is the best set-up for LPG cylinder sizes in NZ?  (Issues being cost and fit into the locker).

- Will the manual digital TV antenna work in NZ or do I need to get this changed out possibly to a sat TV system? 

- What size generator is required to power the microwave (particularly considering the in-rush current on start-up)?

 

I appreciate any help and other guidance you may be able to share with me and am happy to share our experiences on importing from the UK.

Avocadopicker

12:24 PM   25-Jul-15

Katikati

Chris, If your new motorhome is more than 3.5T you will need a Chassis Rating Certificate in order to complete the registration process.  You can apply for it now so that you'll have it when the van arrives. We didn't do it first time through and it cost us a couple of weeks downtime and inconvenience. If you need any help completing it just shout. 

 

We found that microwave on inverter used a lot more than the rated wattage (like 2-3 times) so I would err on the high side - 2 or 2.5kw (we've also got a 2.6kw Kipor which we don't use due to 3kw inverter and lots of batteries.) 

 

I would fit an automatic dish, we did,  can't fault it (Mecatronics). 

ChrisB

05:17 PM   08-Aug-15

New Plymouth

Thanks for the feedback and suggestions.

 

The Apache is specked at 3.5T but plated at 3.25T so that we could drive it in the UK on a standard car license.  Hopefully that won't be a problem on entry.  May get it re-plated / registered at 3.5T if that is possible on arrival in NZ.

 

We have picked up a Honda EU20i off TradeMe at a reasonable price ($1520).  Rated 1.6 kW continuous / 2kW peak.  Will see how that goes and upgrade if necessary - nice unit !

 

Thx for the suggestion on automatic dish.  Will look into it.

 

Our Appache arrives in Auckland in 2 weeks time and we are really looking forward to having her back again !!!

 

Cheers and thanks,

 

Chris

 

FrankC

11:00 AM   05-Mar-17

7930

Hi Avocadopicker

 

On filling in the Chassis Rating request form I have 2 Questions .

 

I have a Mohawk with two axles and four wheels .

 

Axle types in the questionair  1 will be SD (steering and drive ) is axle 2 T (tag) ???

 

Axle configuration not sure what this should be 2X2 ???

 

thanks in anticipation

Frank C

 

Avocadopicker

10:09 PM   31-Jul-17

Katikati

Bit late now, but for the purposes of CRC, you have a driven axle (I. e. the front) and one axle. Only Comanche would have two axles.

Importing privately

by Boltman

[ 15 ]

Boltman

05:35 PM   17-Jun-15

Whangarei

It appears that at the last meeting 22% of those attending have imported there own motor homes. There is a lot of interest in importing and the savings to be made. At present my brotherinlaw is in the UK  investigating the pros and cons of importing. The pros far out way the cons. I would be interested in any comments on the subject. 

 

Chris Gaelic

11:41 PM   17-Jun-15

We've got a privately imported Delaware. Fiat will provide you with a 2 year warranty - but it is far less that what you might expect, and depends on your local Fiat dealer. We had to replace a dpf filter under warranty while in Christchurch, and we had to pay the whole cost up front and then wait 8 months for Fiat Italy to reimburse the dealer before we got paid back about half of what it cost. Euromark made it abundantly clear that we were more trouble than it was worth to them.

Avocadopicker

04:54 AM   18-Jun-15

Katikati

We've imported two Delawares now and found the process very straightforward.  Our friendly local dealer has made it very clear that you'll get no support whatever from him, however if you choose your UK dealer carefully, (there are a few who are pretty export-savvy), you can get some support remotely.

Boltman

09:33 AM   18-Jun-15

Whangarei

Chris the same thing happened to me and I purchased form AMH. Pacific Motor Group made me sign a doc to say I would pay and be reimbursed if fiat spi accepted the warranty claim. Fiat NZ told me they consider them to be a parallel import. So the warranty is the same.

 

Chris Gaelic

10:31 AM   18-Jun-15

It varies depending on the dealer. Andrew Simms in Manukau replaced the alternator and a battery at no cost to us - other than having to wait 4 weeks for the alternator to arrive from Australia. However, I would never use Euromark in Christchurch again if I had any other alternative. Personally, I think that Fiat NZ need to get their heads around the fact that motorhoming is a rapidly growing business opportunity for them as well. They don't carry spare parts, and having to wait for 2 to 4 weeks is a massive problem if you're away from home. Our Fiat's may be parallel imported, but they will be on the road, and will need to be serviced and repaired for many years. That has to be good business for them.

David Buxton

03:00 PM   18-Jun-15

Taupo

In defence of AMH, I am pleased I bought from them as we have had a major clutch repair only after few hundred km, break switch and now break switch wiring problems, and fridge problems. AMH supported us with the clutch issue by battling Fiat for the very expensive repairs to be covered by warranty and then Fiat didn't pay the full amount and AMH covered the remainder. Without this support we would have had to pay the garage (Farmer Auto, Tauranga) up front and possibly would not have not anything from Fiat. Farmer Auto are now dealing with the break switch and wiring problem and are covering that under warranty. I find them very good, however it's a pain and a big expense having to go so far to get warranty work done. Fiat need to have more approved garages in NZ. 

Our fridge problem is being difficult to solve and AMH have been very supportive with that. They have also done a few other minor repairs under warranty for us. 

Our TP

01:00 PM   30-Jun-15

Tauranga

We considered importing ourselves, and I found a UK dealer who would play ball. It appeared that there was at least $10k worth of savings on our Comanche, and perhaps even up to $20k. A lot of money to save. 

And AMH are not the easiest firm in the world to deal with.

However we bought off AMH, using their 3 step payment system, which knocked $10k off the yard price, and really I am pleased we did.

I have peace of mind warranty and general questions/issues wise, and to be fair whenever I have contacted AMH since they have been very helpful.

Whatsmore, the more we support the local agent, the more he will support us.

 

Magndav

08:55 AM   14-Jan-16

Auckland

We imported a new Cherokee almost five years ago uusing the services of Castle European, who advertise in the mags. They effectively acted as project manager for the whole process and we picked up a totally NZ compliant vehicle from them in Tauranga 2-3 weeks after it arrived in NZ. We found their service to be excellent and as we were new to motorhoming were relieved to have that level of expert management. I can't remember what they charged but we still managed to save around $25k on the quoted AMH price at the time. We accepted that we would be carrying much of the warranty risk. In the event the only real issue we had was with the Thetfor fridge which stopped functioning. I got back to the UK supplier who suggested I go straight to Thetford as they offered a direct guarantee on the fridge. Thetford in NZ knew nothing about fridges then so I went back to UK Thetford who put me in touch with their Australian office who were very helpful. They gave me an Auckland company who could fix it and agreed to send them a replacement control panel and also cover all of the costs. It was sorted and I was very impressed with Thetford's support. Since then - and some 42,000km later there have been a number of niggling wear and tear type issues. AMH have lived up to their reputation - totally disinterested, but I have established a great reputation with Taranaki RV Centre, who I would totally recommend for all things Autotrail.

MarkRoaming

04:15 PM   04-Feb-16

For those who have imported privately can you tell me if you have achieved any discount from the UK Dealer?  My spreadsheet shows the lower the UK price the bigger the impact on what you pay in NZ Duty and GST, so I'm keen to avoid paying the full UK price if possible.  

 

So far I've noted the following:

When buying new from UK we can use the Personal Export Scheme which means the purchase price is exclusive of VAT (currently 20%) - VX302 form supplied by Dealer.

When dropping off at Southampton docks (the only place RORO ships to NZ leave from) we have the following list:

1: ensure the fuel tank is near empty to reduce fire risk

2: disconnect the leisure battery

3: remove gas bottles, food (the fire extinguisher might get chucked at NZ but most get through)

4: clean inside and out, wheel arches and awning

5: remove personal items to avoid hassles with customs

6: take lots of photos

 

Does anybody have any comments/additions?

 

 

Avocadopicker

08:29 PM   13-Feb-16

Katikati

If you're importing a heavy (COF) vehicle don't forget to get a Chassis Rating Certificate before it lands, so you will fly through the initial registration checks.... VTNZ can't complete the registration without it. It's free to get, there's an application form you can download, and you'll need certified copies of photos of the VIN/Engine plates. 

 

Yes, we did get a discount from the UK dealer.

 

We had to make up a separate pallet for all our personal belongings as they're not allowed to be shipped in the van.  About an extra GBP250 for a 1.1CUM pallet.  If you leave stuff in the van there is a risk that it may vanish during the journey - we haven't had that experience but we know others who have.

 

On both occasions, even though we had the van completely power-washed underneath in Southampton 30 minutes before leaving it at the docks, MAF still insisted on another steam-clean this end.

 

Use a good customs agent at this end - we have an excellent one who manages the whole process of landing the vehicle and getting it delivered to VTNZ for its registration inspection. Can't rate them highly enough and their charges were very reasonable.

 

Deal with the shipping company directly - they're very helpful.

Tinker

07:50 PM   19-May-16

Auckland

Hi All, we are new members emigrated from England, and shipped our 1015 Mohawk with us.

I have read some of the comments re importing and have some information which may be of interest, and some questions if anyone can help?

 

Brett and Kerri, did you find the NZ socket inserts for the electrical conversion?

 

Buying in the UK- My dealer told me that “Kiwis” on holiday in the UK can buy a new camper and not pay VAT (GST) and use it in the uk for not more than 12 months, then ship it to NZ, benefitting from the sliding tax scale based upon the age of the camper.

 

My Mohawk has just cleared customs and is going to VTNZ on Monday 23rd May. I have been told about having to have it converted electrically and the association put forward Kieran Hawke ? as a person who could do that and certify it, but he is down in Patumahoe. Does any one know of a person nearer to Auckland central ?

 

My camper has a “whole vehicle certificate” which may not require a chassis rating document as the labels affixed have all of the required information, True or False ?

 

We are not likely to use the camper for six months as we have loads of work to do on the house etc, can I put electrical conversion on the back burner for a wile ?

 

Cheers all

Joe & jane Island Electronis

geebeealan

03:07 PM   20-May-16

Kaiapoi

For power sockets try PDL 570S in black or white

 

ZK-RMM

04:26 PM   20-May-16

Auckland

Hi guys,

We buy all our 230 volt socket inserts from K Simpson Electrical in Albany and them fit them into tth original frame,takes two minutes,they bring them in for us we fit them to all our caravans and fitted them to my Delaware, no electrical cert is required in NZ as long as long as you don't have to plug into power,it is a requirement of a camping ground owner to make sure you have an electrical WOF before they let you plug in.

Richard Woods Caravans

ZK-RMM

04:26 PM   20-May-16

Auckland

Hi guys,

We buy all our 230 volt socket inserts from K Simpson Electrical in Albany and them fit them into tth original frame,takes two minutes,they bring them in for us we fit them to all our caravans and fitted them to my Delaware, no electrical cert is required in NZ as long as long as you don't have to plug into power,it is a requirement of a camping ground owner to make sure you have an electrical WOF before they let you plug in.

Richard Woods Caravans

RSUP

05:08 PM   09-Jun-17

Taupo

Folks,

ZK-RMM is correct you do not need a WoEF unless you connect to a Low Voltage supply (240VAC) in NZ.  

 

But be careful, if you are connecting your Caravan or Motorhome to a 240VAC supply you must have a current WoEF, even at home!

Many of the imported connectable installations that I have inspected had the wrong type/size of RCBO (This safety device that protects against Over Current and Earth Leakage).  A different type of RCBO is used in UK against that required for NZ.

 

I have checked and failed motorhomes on the 2nd inspection as they do not comply with AS/NZS 3001 and AS/NZS 3000.

 

The Electrical (Safety) Regulations 2010 state,

Regulation 78, Issue of warrants of electrical fitness for connectable installations (Caravan and Motorhome)

(2)  Every warrant of electrical fitness for a connectable installation must be issued in accordance with AS/NZS 3001, except that a warrant of electrical fitness for a connectable installation -

(C)  that has been imported must be issued in accordance with AS/NZS 3001, but only after an assessment for compliance with Part 1 of AS/NZS 3000 (Wiring Rules).

 

Please feel free to phone me if you want some electrical technical advice;

Allan Hill 021 613 448

Registered Electrical Inspector

NZ TRANSPORT AGENCY RULES

COF issues

by JimiT

[ 1 ]

JimiT

05:04 PM   29-Jul-21

Nelson

I see a few posts reguarding issues with getting a cof.

For what is worth while at the local testing station the owner told me that Fiats will be no problem as they have been supplied from the factory with only half cab and so deamed ok as there has been no cutting or modifaction.

Rod 

NZTA proposals re cab "modifications"

by Smarties

[ 5 ]

Smarties

07:27 PM   28-Jul-21

Dunedin

Hi there folks

 

What are peoples thoughts on the article below re the possible affects on the issuing of COF's following the removing of the rear of Fiat cabs (or any model for that matter) to convert into a motorhome?  It looks like NZTA are looking for issues/problems that don't need a solution.  There must be 1000's of Fiat Ducaoto's here & overseas that have had the rear of the cab removed in the process of manufacturing a motorhomel   Haven't seen  /heard of one yet breaking apart at the back of the cab.  Anyone had a COF refused because of this bullshit yet?

 

Sorry about the length of the copy & paste below but that is how the original article was that I came by.

 

Cheers

 

John

 

NZTA manual change causes headaches for horse truck and motorhome owners

 

 

[Owners are being quoted between $17,000 and $30,000 to get the rechecks, and face long waits.] © Getty Owners are being quoted between $17,000 and $30,000 to get the rechecks, and face long waits.

Motorhomes and horse trucks are being forced off the road under rule changes by the transport agency Waka Kotahi.

Several owners spoken to by RNZ expressed distress at facing months of delay and thousands of dollars of bills.

"It's just a real black tunnel of despair," says Carmen Douglas of Mt Eden.

One horse truck manufacturer, Wade Group of Hamilton, estimated thousands of vehicles could be impacted.

"We think of the adventure tourism operators this could affect when they go to get their COF renewed," said managing director Alyssa Wade.

In April, Waka Kotahi brought in a change to force any cab modified since 2005 to get sign-off from a specialist engineer.

This can mean stripping out the cab to check components, even for new trucks worth $250,000 or more just imported from Europe, and also covering any truck modified locally according to the manufacturer's specifications, which is common to connect the driver to accommodation in the rear of motorhomes or horse trucks.

Owners are being quoted between $17,000 and $30,000 to get the rechecks, and face long waits.

Vicki Hay has just spent six months getting the $400,000 sale of the horse truck at her Tokoroa stallion stud back on track after it was rejected for its six-monthly Certificate of Fitness (COF) due to a cab cutout.

"They've ruined us economically," she said.

Wade Group has contacted NZTA to try to amend the change but, so far, can't offer the scores of clients they are helping with this any firm hope.

"I think their [NZTA's] focus is to keep the industry accountable for safety requirements ... what is disappointing is it has affected the whole industry," Wade said.

It appears not all vehicle inspectors are applying the rule consistently.

Owners told RNZ about one Auckland testing station giving people till September before enforcing it, others are applying it now.

Kapiti retiree Lex Ward just got a COF for his motorhome though it has a cutout.

"It's crazy," he said, "I don't want to get caught up in it."

"I've got ... close on $200,000 worth of dosh tied up in this vehicle and I want to be able to use it - not to have it stuck at my drive cos I can't use it, thank you very much."

Vehicle owners knocked back are struggling to find a heavy vehicle engineer to even take a look.

Canterbury dairy farmer Amanda Ferguson said VTNZ gave her the numbers of three engineers to ring after it rejected her horse truck a month ago.

"One guy just laughed and said, 'no one in New Zealand will help you'.

"So you can imagine how distressing that is."

Engineers are overloaded with work and reluctant to get involved in the controversy, especially when the industry said Waka Kotahi's guidelines about the cab cutouts are unclear.

Auckland certifying engineer Yousef Abraham has circulated reports to the industry describing NZTA's technical bulletin advancing the rule change as "illegal".

"The bulletin states that it is based on land transport rules but grossly misinterprets the meaning of the rules," his report says.

 

'It has to be rectified'

Carmen Douglas's horse truck, a 2007 UK model modified in this country in 2014, is laid up at Abraham's yard, with a dozen others he is waiting to look at.

She should be getting her two horses ready for the jumping and show season fast approaching.

"It's in like a certification vortex, I call it," Douglas said.

"I'm just absolutely freaking out as to how long it's going to take, and how much it's going to cost."

Amanda Ferguson's horse truck is stuck on her property near Oxford.

She's looking at buying a $20,000 horsefloat as a stopgap to transport her nine horses.

"When I've got a perfectly good truck sitting in the shed!" she said.

"This truck was certified when it came into New Zealand. I've had it for over 10 years.

"And all of a sudden they're telling me my truck's not safe. That worries me ... should I have bought this truck in the first place?"

The Motorcaravan Association knows of 17 motorhomes knocked back, and expects many more to be rejected as they come up for their COF.

"None of this is based on accident statistics," said Peter Thompson, voluntary adviser to the association.

"It's based on the fact somebody's been given the job of updating a manual.

"It has to be rectified very, very promptly or there's going to be mass protest."

About 30 people have joined a new horse truck owners Facebook protest group.

Sally Roberts, who runs an Auckland horse truck importer, has put a halt to getting cab cutouts done on two trucks in the UK due to the uncertainty they may have to be pulled apart when they get here.

"These trucks pass in the UK and all the other standards are equivalent," Roberts said.

"So we don't know why we're having to do extra structural strengthening, basically making these things into virtually tanks.

"It's not been proven to us why this would be needed for safety. They're safe on the road in the UK, why aren't they safe for the road in New Zealand?"

She is among those who have contacted the Transport Minister Michael Wood.

He wrote back that he is advised the NZTA technical bulletin is "non-mandatory guidance".

But Wood also said: "Waka Kotahi has advised me that while some exceptions exist (for vehicles modified in Europe), modifications carried out overseas must be certified locally."

Roberts responded to the Minister: "NZTA state it is mandatory and any vehicles that do not go through this process are illegal."

The Transport Agency expected to provide comment later today after RNZ approached it at lunchtime yesterday.

Bruce M

09:18 AM   29-Jul-21

Auckland

Have just got a COF this morning at VTNZ with no mention of cab mods

Chris Gaelic

09:44 AM   29-Jul-21

Here's more detail on the background to this. 

 

https://www.msn.com/en-nz/news/national/nzta-clampdown-not-much-structure-holding-some-motorhome-cabs-together/ar-AAMEhV5?ocid=msedgntp

 

Our COF is due within the next couple of weeks, so hopefully no issue with this.

 

Given that our Auto-trails are all manufactured on the same assembly line, if one is deemed to be safe, then they all should be. Plus, there has never been a problem with structural integrity that I'm aware of. 

geebeealan

10:02 AM   29-Jul-21

Kaiapoi

 

 

Show this to them when they fail you 

Mike & Chris

02:33 PM   29-Jul-21

North Canterbury

I believe that a lot of people are listening too much to social media on this subject (Facebook) and treating the various opinions as fact. I haven't read of any instances where built up motorhomes on factory specific chassis have had issues, its all about trucks that are being modified to create motorhomes, buses, horsefloats etc. The following link will take you to the background info from NZTA, read the 5th para under " Background" - "This guidance is primarily aimed at bespoke modifications, not mass-produced variants"

https://vehicleinspection.nzta.govt.nz/virms/hvsc/tb/modifications-to-trucks-cabs

 

As far as I am aware (have read) all factory produced motorhomes from Europe are covered under their original approvals and are not required to have further testing.

Tow bar ball Long neck

by Les

[ 3 ]

Les

01:35 PM   21-Nov-19

Tuakau

COF

Is your vehicle over 3500 kgs?

A heads up that effective from Monday 17th February 2020, a heavy vehicle (only those over 3500 kgs) will be rejected if it has a high rise towball fitted. These are the type with a long neck and required when towing a trailer fitted with an ALKO stabiliser coupling.

 

Les

Ricky & Libby

06:39 AM   08-Dec-19

Queenstown

Hi les just to clarify does this include the Wither brand that comes from Autotrail? if so do you have to remove them altogether as I currently use mine as a bike rack?

 

Les

12:20 PM   08-Dec-19

Tuakau

Hi,

 

Check with LTNZ as I see one brand of Tow ball was OK.

 

Les

Seatbelt Placard

by Mike & Chris

[ 2 ]

Mike & Chris

04:25 PM   25-Jul-19

North Canterbury

During the course of a COF inspection at VTNZ Rangiora this morning I was told that I had to fit a placard, stating "seatbelts must be worn while the vehicle is in motion", in a place visible to the front seat occupants. He explained that it was because the seats were capable of swiveling. Whist I have no problem complying I have never heard of this requirement or been told of it during the previous half dozen inspections. Anyone else?  Mike

Mike & Chris

04:33 PM   25-Jul-19

North Canterbury

Well having had another look at the regulations I have answered my own question except that the placard should state that the seats must be locked in the forward position for the seatbelts to operate correctly. Mike

 

https://www.nzta.govt.nz/vehicles/choosing-the-right-vehicle/features-that-protect-you/seat-belts/seat-belts-in-motorhomes/

Comanche

by RoseDaveClark

[ 8 ]

RoseDaveClark

08:07 PM   24-Sep-17

Whangaparaoa

Hi there, we are new members, Rose and Dave Clark. In the research stage at the moment and after information on the Comanche. Does anybody own one and if so why did you choose the Comanche, likes, dislikes etc. Thanks in advance, Rose.

 

Nick & Karen

08:54 PM   24-Sep-17

Hi Rose, we live on the road in our Comanche, the reason we choose the Comanche is we wanted an apartment for 2 on wheels. We have no regrets, every motorhome will have it's compromise, this model just had the least compromise for us. 

 

Elliot

09:16 PM   24-Sep-17

Hi both,

tag axles a friend of mine told me to avoid in NZ , because of RUC charges ? Is that correct 

I can’t say I’ve looked at it in detail 

The Comanche  is a lovely van having seen a few on the roads here in the UK

Thd big Birmingham annual show is up in October and I’m going to lust after one there !

Nick & Karen

07:34 AM   25-Sep-17

Difference is $33.00 between 2 axles and 3 axles

Elliot

07:37 AM   25-Sep-17

Over what km distance? ...

Sorry you meant per 1000km?

 

It's very confusing RUC actually- since there is a rate for Motorcarvan here:-

https://www.nzta.govt.nz/vehicles/licensing-rego/road-user-charges/ruc-rates-and-transaction-fees/#RUC-rates-for-distance-licences-motor-caravans

 

but only references 3 axles and 4 axles but not 2....

Mike & Chris

09:55 AM   25-Sep-17

North Canterbury

For my Dakota (between 3.5 and 6 tonnes) it's $68 per 1000kms. Commanche with 3 axles (3 axles less than 12 tonnes) the fee is $90, so for a "similar" weight vehicle it is an additional $22 per 1000kms for the third axle. I recently bought 5000kms online and was charged $344.80 so presumably there was a small charge for the label.

 

//www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/resources/road-user-charges/docs/road-user-charges-handbook.pdf

Mike & Chris

10:19 AM   25-Sep-17

North Canterbury

Just read a little more from the link in my post above and there is indeed a transaction charge, but doing it online is the cheapest option and by phone the most expensive. As a matter of interest I have done all of my vehicle registrations online for many years and it is cheaper than over the counter.... there is always a discount applied at the point of paying the account.

 

Regarding the thread about the cost of a tag axle, if your motorhome is between 6 and 12 tonnes RUC is actually cheaper for a vehicle with 3 axles and at some weights cheaper with rear dual tyres. 

Elliot

10:35 AM   25-Sep-17

Thanks for this 

must be my ignorance in understanding what a motor caravan is by NZTA definition...

 

NZTA Loading Rules

by David Buxton

[ 6 ]

David Buxton

08:07 AM   09-Sep-17

Taupo

NZTA's loading rules and licence, WOF and COF rules are important reading. I suspect many WOF vans are over 3.5 tones when fully loaded with passengers, fuel, people, water, food, "toys" and personal belongings.  I wonder what this does to insurance cover if involved in an accident. 

Here's the relevant website link:

 

//www.nzta.govt.nz/assets/resources/new-motorhomes-information-for-importers-traders-and-private-purchasers/new-motorhomes.pdf

AlexR

09:03 AM   26-Oct-19

North Shore

Hi there

My wif and myself are new members and really appreciate the info and experience of this group. We are currently

considering purchasing an autotrail and have spent the last few weeks considering the advantages and disadvantages of having a vehicle with a wof or a cof.

Considering David’s question re insurance. My information gathered says that most wof vans have a tare weight of about 3100-3200 kgs. With the GVM at 3500 kgs, once you add the usual additions like the extra person or two, electric bikes, water etc this puts the total weight to above the legal limit. Once you do this I believe you are putting yourself at the mercy of the insurers as they could void a claim on the grounds of your van being above legal limits. My slant on this is that anyone who drives a vehicle over the 3500 kgs who is involved in an accident will leave themselves exposed to an insurer weighing their vehicle and then voiding any claim should they decide to do so. If this happened you would be liable for your own damage, any third part damage ( someone you hit) or even personal liability to another individual. Having worked with insurers for over 30 years this is not a position I ever want to be in - consequently we are purchasing a cof van not wof as the Payload limits generally are far higher.

These are my personal views but I suggest you consider them for your own protection and ensure any vehicle you own/drive is within its legal weight limits to minimise any liabilities you may face.  Good luck.Alex Rodgers

 

 

 

 

 

 

Graham and Laurel

10:06 AM   26-Oct-19

Masterton

An insurer can only decline a claim for over weight if the over weight was the cause of the accident. The Insurance Law Reform Act only allows a claim to be declined if the non compliance is material to the loss. 

The same applies to an expired WOF or COF. An item covered by the inspection must fail and cause an accident before a claim can be declined. The courts have ruled a piece of paper on the windscreen does not stop an accident from happening regardless if the vehicle is legally allowed on the road.

the danger with running a vehicle overweight is if you are pulled over by police and weighed you may have to reduce the weight somehow before they let you drive off. Could be very difficult 

AlexR

03:13 PM   26-Oct-19

North Shore

Although I know this to be true the time between you being pulled up and having a claim declined by an over anxious insurance company and the stress that would be involved initially arguing with them and the stress and costs in fighting them to actually take it to court, we can all do without. Worth a thought. Alex

John M

10:57 PM   26-Oct-19

Auckland

Agree with the above. Additional comment, I read in a UK publication that a club survey of UK caravans and MH revealed that 25% were over weight. The payload problem increases as you go up in vehicle quality, the better vans weigh more due to their double floors and built in accessories, making it harder to keep to the 3.5T limit. Most Euro vans are down plated for the UK market. That is a right hand drive band X model Y will be plated to 3.5T, but the left hand drive version will be higher. Those with a UK licence from before 1997 can drive the heavier weight, those licences obtained post 1997 can only drive 3.5T. So each year fewer Brits can drive heavy vehicles. Therefore, we can expect this to influence AT design parameters. JohnM Kent

Alistair & Stella

03:45 PM   17-Dec-19

Christchurch

There is a very comprehensive blog on licencedtoretire.com worth reading: "Is your Motorhome weight legal on the road"

NZ drivers licence validity in UK

by beedee

[ 12 ]

beedee

05:08 PM   14-Jul-16

Auckland

My wife & I are planning to buy a Delaware in the UK & spend about 4 months touring UK & Western Europe before shipping it back home. There is some useful information on the Forum already & we would really appreciate any feedback from 'avocadopicker' or others, who could recommend 'export savvy' UK dealers to contact.

Our query, though, concerns the validity of a NZ HT licence in Europe. It looks as though the Delaware exceeds the 3.5T limit for legal driving in Europe with a standard NZ car licence, so we were wondering if anybody knew if we can drive the Delware with a NZ HT licence.

Love this forum - so useful. 

The Sutherlands

09:19 PM   14-Jul-16

Auckland

Hi beedee. It is not possible to drive legally in the UK on a NZ license in a vehicle in excess of 3.5T. You will also fail to get insurance which is another legal requirment. Sorry,nice plan but cant be done without breaking the law. Believe me, I was planning the same thing but decided it

wasnt worth the risk so bought my RB straight back here using Paul at Castle  European, well known to many self importers of this Club. However, if you where to buy any Motor Home less than 3.5T then apart from the hassle of getting insurance you can drive anything anywhere you like,provided your under 70 but thats another story

beedee

08:08 AM   15-Jul-16

Auckland

Thanks so much for clearing that up. I had a feeling that was the case but was hoping there was a way round it.

I will follow your advice & contact Castle European. Thanks again, much appreciated.

Mike & Chris

02:22 PM   16-Jul-16

North Canterbury

Hi

Many years ago I was offered a job in Europe driving Contiki Tours but turned it down at the time to persue another career at home. Ever since I have often wondered about the requirements for licence equivalency as I still have a class 5 licence in NZ with a P endorsement. This post caused me to do a bit of research... it seems that to obtain an LGV licence for private use shouldn't be too difficult, expensive or time consuming, if you were keen. More difficult and expensive would probably be getting insurance. I have purchased a couple of cars in the UK for holiday use and insurance is always a hassle and the cost for a few weeks has always been more than I pay at home for a year. LGV is good for up to 7.5 tonnes and it could be that they will grant you one for a limited period and for specific single vehicle use. As an example, I ferried a couple of airline aircraft from the UK to NZ, both under British registration and both times I was granted a UK licence for 6 weeks but valid only for the aircraft concerned.

 

It would certainly be worth enquiring about.

The Sutherlands

08:57 AM   17-Jul-16

Auckland

Hi-Sorry, no , still cant be done. To get a license to drive a vehicle in excess of 3.5T .First you need a UK license, to get a UK license you need a UK address, you could use an address of a relative but by the time you sit your standard Class B license and the upgrade to a Cat C1 to drive >3.5T your holiday would be over. NZ licenses are not transfereable to UK licenses and only give you 12 months local authority to drive cars, motorcycles and vehicles <3.5T. If you are still unsure, check the DVLA website at GOV.UK. The only people lucky enought to do this are previous UK residents with UK licenses and even then there are some weird exclusions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Avocadopicker

03:12 PM   24-Jul-16

Katikati

Hi, if you phone me on 07 549 3620 I can give you chapter and verse on the whole sorry issue - yeah, what they said above really, the biggest issue is with insurance - you must have it - the rego and insurance databases are linked in the UK so the police can check not just your warrant and licence status, but also your insurance, just off the number plate. Most (all?) Insurers insist on UK residence status so no status =no insurance = no drive >3.5T in Europe! 

Mike & Chris

04:41 PM   24-Jul-16

North Canterbury

(all?) is certainly not correct, I have bought and insured three cars in the UK over the years, each time for about six weeks whilst on holiday.

geebeealan

05:04 PM   24-Jul-16

Kaiapoi

Yes you can buy and insure a second hand car in UK but

to buy a new one they need a rego number to get insurance cover and insurance cover needs a rego number

both of these need Uk address so it just keeps going around in a circle

we got around it buy the dealer giving us the rego number of the last vel he sold the same and then told the insurance company tha it was a temp rego to get a insurance cover note then could use the cover note to get the rego done then gave the correct rego to the insurance company

insurance company was Down under insurance

ChrisB

07:46 PM   24-Jul-16

New Plymouth

3.5 tonne and less is easy and we have done it !  Here's how:

 

-  We purchased a new Apache 634 from a dealer in Southampton.

-  Once we had the VIN we registered over the Internet from NZ using the address of our daughter who was living in London at the time

-  No need for an HT license as NZ driver's liocense is OK up to 3,500 Kg.

-  Registration documents were sent to the London address

- Once we had these (electronically) we arranged insurance with "Down Under"

-  Plates were printed by the dealer

-  We travelled for 4 weeks around UK with no problem (and legally)

-  We exported the vehicle to NZ

-  Once it arrived we had it registered in NZ at 3650 Kgs (Autotrail helped with this)

And we are so happy with the experience RVing in UK (by pub car park) and final outome !!!

 

PS.  Dont forget to bring the UK registration documents (hard copy) home with you as otherwise there will be significant delays  . . . . .

Avocadopicker

10:22 AM   05-Aug-16

Katikati

The issue is Delaware >3.5T requires a specific class of licence which is not included in International Permit and not covered by visitors licence (NZ Class 2 doesn't count in Europe).

Col

02:57 PM   03-Jan-20

Porirua

We've imported two vehicles neither exceeding 3.5T class from the UK doing all of the paperwork etc ourselves while qualifying for the vehicle price ex VaT, as long as you export it within the one year period. I managed to get good shipping and insurance prices, both arrived successfully with no damage. You need an NZ agent at this end, we used Grant Hudson @ AiroNaut (+64 9 309 8814) in Auckland as I found the most cost-effective port to have a van offloaded.

 

In terms of UK insurance, no local UK company will touch you unless you've got a local rego plate and a reliable UK address. (Someone else has stated this). As a Kiwi you need to go to DownUnder Insurance - they charge like several wounded bulls........ AND you must be under 70 yo. Someone else did tell me of an alternative company but I cannot recall it....apols re that.

 

Or you could swap the NZ licence for a UK licence, as a friend did, then qualify for local cover that is so much cheaper.

 

You do need cover though as we found out after an 'engagement' with a French driver.

cheers

Colin

 

John M

06:36 PM   03-Jan-20

Auckland

Hi Colin

What you say is essentially correct although there are a few companies that will insure us, a friend of 72 did so last May at a much better price than DUI.  His Rapido retailer provided the contact.

 

Convertting your licence is not so easy, fortunately I did in 1985.  But now you need supporting paper work that indicates you are a resident, and at the very least you need a residents visa or UK passport.  BUT here is the crunch, if NZer or Canadian, the current paperwork requires you to supply proof that your licence was issued in a manual car, otherwise you can only drive an auto.  They think we all drive autos in NZ.  In the UK autos are rare, so NZers and Canadians need to prove they can drive a manual! How do we do that, my test was 51 years ago!  South Africans and Australians don’t need to prove this.  Crazy.

JohnM

Holidaying in Auck

MH in Kent

 

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Round Table Delaware

by Bunty

[ 3 ]

Bunty

04:06 PM   26-Mar-22

Timaru

Has anyone moved round table in Delaware to the opposite corner of lounge , by kitchen,any problems etc.

Cheers .

 

Steeny

11:18 AM   22-Apr-22

R.D.5 Thames

Hi,we have moved our round table to below the sink and it works great

Mike & Chris

11:41 AM   22-Apr-22

North Canterbury

Could you explain a little more about how you did that and a photo if possible... is it not in the way when not being used as a table?

 

E-bikes on a rack on back of F72 Tribute

by Guzzisti Nomads

[ 1 ]

Guzzisti Nomads

03:52 PM   22-Feb-22

Tauranga

Hi there!

we have a 2020 Tribute F72 which has a rear window and currently have a Thule bike rack mounted below it which has been great with our standard bikes but now we are looking to get e-bikes and a rack that can raise up and down to enable us to get the heavy beasts on!

 Has anyone else made this change and if so how do you find out if the back of the MH is strong enough to have the weight (46kg) on it?

 Thanks in advance 😎

 

 

 

Catlins Stay Options

by Malcolm

[ 3 ]

Malcolm

08:43 PM   01-Feb-21

Feilding

Hi,

Would appreciate hearing from any members who have recently stayed in the Catlins at either Whistling Frog Resort or the Curio Bay Camp Ground on a powered site. What was your stay like? Recommendations or negative comments.

We are planning on visiting the Catlins soon so would find members comments on the above accomodation options helpful.

Many thanks,

Malcolm

 

Smarties

07:37 PM   02-Feb-21

Dunedin

Hi Malcolm

I haven't stayed at either place but I am pretty familiar with particularly the Whistling Frog as I live in Balclutha & work took me down that way (including to the farm associated with the W. Frog) many times.  The W. Frog would be a very quiet pleasant spot to stay with a good cafe/restaurant on site and also it is quite close to the Maclean Falls & Cathedral Caves.  If you don't neccessarily have to have power then the DOC sites at Purakanui Bay & Papatowai would be well worth a stop as well.  The Florence Hill lookout over Tautuku beach & peninsula, about 7 - 10km before you get to the W. Frog (if you come from the Balclutha end) has to be, in my opinion, right up there amongst the best coastal views in NZ .

 

Enjoy your trip

 

John

Malcolm

04:55 PM   05-Mar-21

Feilding

Hi John,

I have only just read your reply and thanks for replying.

Have only yesterday returned home after 23 days in our camper van touring south eastern south island including the Catlins.Stayed three nights at the Whistling Frog Resort and can now highly recommend the place. Reception staff very pleaseant and helpful. My wife and I had dinner in their restaurant and both our meals were top class and our table server ( an English guy recently laid of from a Queenstown restaurant) one of the best professsionals we came across during our trip. 

Florence Hill lookout superb coastal views.

 So few camper vans/caravans though on the road or in the parks we stayed at over 22 nights. Really felt for all those camp ground owners where some nights only 2 or 3 campervans/caravans staying.  Most small towns we past through very very quiteas far as toursist went,

Now planning our next Sth island trip!

Cheers!

Malcolm

 

anyone going to blenheim thru ashburton?

by grantm

[ 1 ]

grantm

10:56 AM   13-Aug-20

is anyone travelling to blenheim this week that could take a box for me ?  ph 03 3074556

Picnic shelf

by GS Berger

[ 1 ]

GS Berger

07:15 PM   17-Oct-19

bought and installed picnic table

Inflatable Boat

by Tim and Sheryl

[ 7 ]

Tim and Sheryl

12:52 PM   27-Dec-17

NSW

I am considering purchasing an inflatable boat and outboard to store in the garage of my 2014 Delaware.  The Takacat Lite 3m appeals to me paired with a 6hp Honda short shaft outboard.  Has anyone got this combination (or similar)?  I would be interested to know if it is possible to store all this in the garage, or if there are other storage solutions (rack etc).  I would prefer not to tow a trailer.

MarkRoaming

01:18 PM   27-Dec-17

Hi Tim

I too was researching this and had similar concerns.  Things I was told to watch out for are the glued vs welded seams. Glued only lasts 5-10yrs, handles fall off then the seams go.  Of course you can repair but who wants a leak while you're off shore?  I was told best makes are Southern Pacific, FOrce 4, Aquapro, Zodiac, Bombard,X-3 and Achilles.  I was adamant I needed a boat with multiple inflated areas in case of deflation!   The weight of the boat and motor concerned me also.  Motors start at 20kg and go up from there.  I looked at air cooled motors which are lighter but completely exposed to salt water spray.  There is a move to ban 2 stroke motors on lakes overseas so to future proof I'd started leaning towards 4 stroke despite the extra weight.   

You can add a hydrofoil to the motor which increases lift and speed apparently.

The boats come in all sizes of bags and IMO the best bag was one which folded up from 4 sides.  Both the motor and bag sizes need to be seen, measured and lifted before committing - who needs a back strain on holiday or one that won't fit in the garage.  Youtube has reviews which show you speed comparisons.  Good luck and let us know what you end up doing and your experience.

Mark

Les

01:24 PM   27-Dec-17

Tuakau

Hi, We have a Delaware with a 10foot.8 inch Porta bote on Roof and a 6 hp suzuki 25 kg in boot, use rope pulleys to get boat down... Look further up to see boat on roof under 2017 Delaware Project.....Les Ps I tried cheap china 4 hp 4 stroke air cooled from trademe just rubish hard to start !!! Also tried inflatables Aakron 30 kg it stayed in boot as I found you get to lazey to blow it up ......Les

Tim and Sheryl

01:04 PM   28-Dec-17

NSW

Thanks Les and Mark, very helpful indeed. Les how do you stow the motor in the boot.....have you manufactured a bracket for it? Any photos would be much appreciated.

Les

01:45 PM   28-Dec-17

Tuakau

Hi Tim and Sheryl, The 2017 Delaware has four tie down points on the boot floor, your model just fit four s/s eye bolts through boot floor with washers and nuts purchase from a Marine Shop.......Les

Mike & Chris

08:42 PM   28-Dec-17

North Canterbury

Or even better if you wanted to fit some flush or semi flush tie downs or cargo track go to this website. The cargo track is the same as the seat track which runs through the cabin and cargo holds of an aircraft so the tie down points are infinitely adjustable. Two strips through the garage, a cradle to sit the motor in and a handful of anchors would do the job nicely

 

https://www.comac.co.nz/U/Cargo-Control-Rope-Rings

 

I have bought a lot of hard to find fittings from Comac over the last few years... they are truly one of NZ's hidden treasures, their range and service are second to none.

 

Mike

Graham and Laurel

08:27 AM   22-Apr-19

Masterton

I have a 3m takacat and 6hp Yamaha four stroke and store both on one side of the garage. Fits in very well. This is in a Comanche. In the centre is a barbecue and beside that chairs etc. plenty of room

Acommadating a Paddleboard

by Michele

[ 5 ]

Michele

11:57 AM   14-Mar-17

Whangarei

We have ordered a Tracker FB and want to travel with a 10 foot paddle board...I hope on the roof...any ideas of roofracks??? or something???....does anyone travel with a paddle board???... thanks Michele

David Buxton

04:13 PM   14-Mar-17

Taupo

I remember seeing an ingenious device invented by a Nelson? motorhomer  on utube whereby the canoe in this case was hauled up from the side and parked on top. 

The Sutherlands

08:01 AM   23-Apr-17

Auckland

I went for the inflatable SUP option and also an inflatable kayak. All fit nicely in my RB. Got to have the toys! Not having a head for heights and not wanting to put any more holes in my roof-these were the only options

Buddy and Jeanette

05:00 PM   03-May-17

Tauranga

Hi Leith, re wanting to lift your paddle board on to the roof of your motorhome. I built a system to lift my 29kg kayak on to the roof of my Dakota. Although it may be too elaborate for what you require it may give you some ideas of how to safely place your board on to the roof without having to climb up there (dangerous when your wet). Go to YOUTUBE and look up KAYAK LIFTING BUDDY and you can see it in operation. If you want any more advice I am willing to give you some help. Safe motoring. Buddy

 

Michele

12:21 PM   04-May-17

Whangarei

Wow...thats amazing Buddy...thanks...we get our new Tracker in September and will be in touch....Thank you...Michele Leith

Loading a KAYAK (or similar) on to roof of an Autotrail.

by David Buxton

[ 4 ]

David Buxton

03:43 PM   13-Feb-17

Taupo

Very ingenious and well thought out. Congratulations Buddy. I'm sure you will get plenty of enquiries. 

Michele

01:56 PM   14-Mar-17

Whangarei

Im interested to see what you did...Im trying to acommadate a paddle board...thanks Michele Leith

DNC

08:39 AM   25-May-17

Auckland

Sorry I must have missed seeing that ingenious idea? I'd be very interested in seeing it.

 

Les

11:02 AM   25-May-17

Tuakau

You Tube look for Kayak Lifting Buddy System. Les

SAFETY

Cam bus issues

by WAYNE_2

[ 1 ]

WAYNE_2

09:23 PM   17-Jun-23

Hi All 

I am new to this site and would like to know how many owners have had issues with there injector on the ford transit (2021) Autotrail F74

I had the injector replaced (only with 15k on the clock )and it now has a fault code of 

 

ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) U0001:16-28 High Speed CAN Communication Bus Continuous Memory DTCs BCMII (Body Control Module)

B109B:15-0A License Plate Lamp Continuous Memory DTCs BCMII (Body Control Module)

U0184:87-0A Missing Communication With RADIO Continuous Memory DTCs IPC (Instrument Panel Control Module)

U0184:00-0A Missing Communication With RADIO Continuous Memory DTCs PCM (Powertrain Control Module) rol Module)

 

U0415:00-08 Invalid Data Received From ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) Control Module A Continuous Memory DTCs

 

Has anyone elese had anything like this 

 

Thanks Wayne 

tow rating

by Mikew

[ 8 ]

Mikew

02:40 PM   27-Aug-21

hi everyone im sure this has been adressed before , does anyone know the tow rating on my Dakota 2013 3.0 l

im wanting to tow an enclosed car trialer and car to the beach hop next year 

 

regards mike 0274328131

Mike & Chris

04:01 PM   27-Aug-21

North Canterbury

Hi Mike

 

My Dakota is a couple of years newer but should be similar...  Maximum Towed Mass is 1100kgs braked with 150kgs max on the tow ball. All of this information is on your windscreen loading certificate. Its unlikely that a car and trailer would be anywhere near 1100kgs unless its a classic Mini on a alloy trailer. Mike

Sublime

04:20 PM   27-Aug-21

Geraldine

Our 2014 is 750kg unbraked 1250 kg braked so you really need to check the rating on your front window label.

Boltman

06:35 PM   27-Aug-21

Whangarei

Peter Johnson Engineering manufactured fitted and issued my certificate at 1500kg and no difference between braked and unbraked. 

Mike & Chris

08:15 PM   27-Aug-21

North Canterbury

Presumably you have a GCM of 5500kg so if you towed 1500kg you would be limiting your motorhome weight to 4000kg which would be challenging in a Dakota. My last two COF's were 4060 and 3990 with just the inspector on board, empty fridge etc.

Mikew

12:51 PM   30-Aug-21

thanks for your replies i have cheched the window cert it says Tare 3480,  MTM- Braked 2000  GVM 4250  GCM 5290 tow bar 2000,  FTW 1260  and RTW1440 so still not a lot of sense

 

i get tare is 3480 and gross combination mass is 5290  that leaves 1810 potentially  for trailer weight ?

Mike & Chris

02:37 PM   30-Aug-21

North Canterbury

Tare: is your empty weight (give or take a few bits and pieces)

GVM: is the maximum that your base vehicle can be, in this case 770 above your Tare, consider this as payload.

GCM: is the maximum your combination can be so if your motorhome was at max of 4250 then you could tow 1040kgs.

MTM: is max towed mass so this is the maximum that you can tow but seeing that there is 1810 between your tare and GCM you could never tow 2000kgs

FTW and RTW are maximum axle weights, not relevant to the present discussion.

 

I would suggest from those certified weights you should not consider towing more than about 1100kgs which will probably be less than a car and trailer or maybe up to 1500 or so if you kept your payload to an absolute minimum.

 

Mikew

03:44 PM   30-Aug-21

Thanks very much for your help now i have a direction to go, thats awsome regards mike

Gas installation recall

by Tim in OZ

[ 1 ]

Tim in OZ

10:23 PM   26-Jul-21

2464 Australia

Hi.

A Product Safety Recall was issued in Australia on 14/07/21 for the gas systems on AutoTrail RVs supplied in Australia between 3/08/12 and 20/11/20. As the same gas standard

ASNZS 5601.2 2020 applies in NZ as in OZ, then it is probably applicable to NZ motorhomes.

 

Tim

 

As image quality is poor will add a link to PDF version

http://autotrailusers.nz/ForumFiles/1010/Recall%20advertisement_1912.pdf

Fit a Wireless Rear View Camera

by IanRJ

[ 5 ]

IanRJ

07:46 PM   10-May-21

Northumberland

Hi Folks

 

Brandy new here so please be gentle.

 

I'm in UK and found this site by pure fluke, but it has been a great resource for me - thanks so much to all for the content.

 

I have a 2019 AT Delaware HB, and I want to fit a wireless rear view camera. The issue is where to tap power for the camera. I suspect the upper tail lights would be the best location to tap power, but before I start pulling panels off inside, I was hoping someone has done this already?

 

I think there should be some size of gap between the rear plastic shell and the rear wall of the van, but not sure how to access it?

 

There are no cables internally that are 12v ignition switched, at the rear of the van in the bedroon cupboards for example. 

 

Any advise from those experienced would be gratfully appreciated?

Avocadopicker

10:14 PM   10-May-21

Katikati

If you remove the high level light in top right corner, you can feed a wire (use one of those miniature chimney-sweep rod sets with wire attached) up inside the corner until you can retrieve it through the hole where the light was, then do the same again horizontally to take the wire to the hole where your camera is mounted. I did that and took the camera coax that way, to mount two cameras, one for reversing, one for rear view when driving.

Avocadopicker

10:15 PM   10-May-21

Katikati

If you remove the high level light in top right corner, you can feed a wire (use one of those miniature chimney-sweep rod sets with wire attached) up inside the corner until you can retrieve it through the hole where the light was, then do the same again horizontally to take the wire to the hole where your camera is mounted. I did that and took the camera coax that way, to mount two cameras, one for reversing, one for rear view when driving.

Avocadopicker

10:22 PM   10-May-21

Katikati

If you remove the high level light in top right corner, you can feed a wire (use one of those miniature chimney-sweep rod sets with wire attached) up inside the corner until you can retrieve it through the hole where the light was, then do the same again horizontally to take the wire to the hole where your camera is mounted. I did that and took the camera coax that way, to mount two cameras, one for reversing, one for rear view when driving. I also took a power wire all the way from fuse at the front to provide 12v for the camera.

IanRJ

06:17 PM   16-May-21

Northumberland

Avocadopicker - thanks for the advice. That was one of the routes I was contemplating but - you have confirmed that there is a route between that light and the top of the rear panel. I'll pull that light and see what I can do, I'm hoping to tap 12v from that light to power the wireless camera. I already have the reversing camera fitted and fed to the head unit so only want the rearview camera to feed to the internal mirror monitor.

 

Appreciated

IanRJ

Rules re tow behind

by Bob and Denise

[ 3 ]

Bob and Denise

08:12 PM   22-Jul-20

WHANGAREI

We have just purchased a Suzuki Jimny to tow behind our Delaware. We have had a A frame made with safety chains and looking at fitting a RVibrake system in the Jimny, and if we do this we have been told we should not use safety chains does anyone know the actual law regarding using one system or the other and is it illegal to use both together. 

Mike & Chris

11:10 PM   22-Jul-20

North Canterbury

Conventional wisdom suggests that if a trailer is fitted with breakaway brakes then safety chains should not be fitted as they might stop the breakaway system working. Does the system that you are looking at incorporate a breakaway brake tether?

Boltman

10:29 AM   23-Jul-20

Whangarei

I fitted a folding a frame to my 2015 Jimny manual in 2015 and rig it with two safety chains. The only regulation I have been told is to attach the left hand chain to the right hand side of the tow bar and visa versa. We have towed all over New Zealand and to Bluff twice from Whangārei. Suzuki master agent service manager in Wanganui warned to run the engine for five minutes approximately to allow oil to circulate around the transmission bearings every two hundred km,s.

The only warning I can give is without assisted brakes it heats up the front discs coming down long hills so be warned.

Glass Top--Hob Exploding

by Les

[ 2 ]

Les

09:15 AM   02-Jul-18

Tuakau

HOB GLASS EXPLODING
AT NZ Facebook Post:    A caution for those who are not aware that there have been cases of the Glass Hob Cover exploding showering the motorhome with glass fragments. The majority of cases were caused by the electric element being accidently turned on while not plugged into the power, and when hooked up to power the element heats up while the glass cover is down. There are other reasons: Grandchild played with the knob; knob turned on instead of grill, etc. 
The best precaution is to turn off the switch for the electric hob which is located under the oven, in the space accessed by the drop down glass door. It is easy to switch it back on when specifically required for cooking.
Comments:
-  We had one shatter on our narrow boat when living on it in the U.K. the hob had been used that morning, I sprayed a glass cleaner on to clean it and it just exploded - not a great experience
-  There is also a recommended fry pan size to avoid heating the glass.
-  Thank you for the warning
-  Thanks for the warning. I am going to look for that switch now. I know it's easy to turn that element on by mistake...
-  Found the switch and turned it off yesterday, easy enough to turn on when we need it, which isn't very often!
-  Turned ours off also
-  We always lift the glass up as the first thing we do when we park up and then there is no risk.
-   It happened to us - 2 year old grandchild had fiddled with knobs.

 

Boltman

10:44 AM   23-Jul-20

Whangarei

On the model oven fitted to our Dakota it whole unit is protected by safety switches both gas and electric. I.e. when the glass top is closed nothing works. If you test your rig by trying to turn it on with the top closed and get any sign of something coming on take it back to the dealer.

 

Caution It will only take 2 seconds for the gas test and 10 seconds hot the electric to show signs of heat.

 

My wife closes the lid before bed every night as a safety precaution.

Passing Cyclists

by Martin T

[ 9 ]

Martin T

01:31 PM   06-Jan-18

Upper Moutere

As a cyclist I appreciate the way that most drivers of motorhomes give me at least the recommended 1.5m when passing. I was therefore both concerned and shocked when at about 11.00am this morning an NZMCA member driving an Autotrail passed myself and 2 friends at Woodstock (between Motueka and Tapawera) giving us between 30 and 50cm space!

It's a quiet road and the incident was on a straight section. We are all experienced cyclists wearing bright clothing who ride in single file on the white line so taking up the minimum amount of road space.

I know that most of you do this as a matter of course, but please remember that motorhomes cruising at 80 - 100km cause singificant drag which can pull a cyclist into the path of following traffic.       

Mike & Chris

12:18 PM   03-Feb-18

North Canterbury

To be fair, they have equal rights to the road as you have... I would suggest that you shouldn't have attempted to pass them until the way was clear. Passing a group of cyclists aproaching a blind corner with oncoming traffic is more than a little foolhardy and I wouldn't want my photo doing it out in the public domain.

 

Mike

Leonie

03:30 PM   03-Feb-18

Napier

I don't believe it is actually safe, wise and indeed even lawful for cyclists to ride abreast like this especially on narrow or busy roads. 

Mike & Chris

05:21 PM   03-Feb-18

North Canterbury

There is a section in the Road Code called "Taking the lane" whereby cyclists are allowed to move toward the centre line to dominate the lane making it difficult or impossible for other traffic to pass (to keep themselves safe). I do it when I am crossing a narrow bridge or approaching a corner on a narrow road just like the photo above. The rationale is that it stops following traffic overtaking when it isn't safe. The narrative goes on to say that as soon as the way is clear then the cyclists should resume single file to allow other traffic to pass. I would say that is exactly what the cyclist in the photo is doing, trying to stop you from overtaking because it wasn't safe. As for the following car, that's what hazard lights are for... this all works wonderfully well in Europe, but in NZ motorists have an attitude and to hell with cyclists, horses and pedestrians, they only thing they respect is size, big trucks!!

Leonie

05:42 PM   03-Feb-18

Napier

Mike and Chris, thank you for that update. It does indeed make sense in that instance. I guess it depends on the behaviour on the straight. 

Im a cyclist too, I love it, no better way to maintain cardiac fitness IMHO. But I am scared of the roads. The sooner we get the "Cross the Bridge" and more safe cycle paths, the better for me! 

Europe has a long history of accommodating cyclists with many wonderful pathways ( eg the Netherlands) hopefully we will get there too 🙂

Martin T

06:15 PM   03-Feb-18

Upper Moutere

'Share the road' is a very common sign in Tasman and perhaps this is a mantra we should all adopt. There are legal 'rights and wrongs' and recommendations,  see //www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/roadcode/cyclist-code/about-cycling/cyclist-responsibilities/ , but these are just a framework for safe road use. Personally I always try to err on the side of caution whether riding or driving and this doesn't seem to slow me down significantly, and certainly by much less than an accident would!

 

However, no matter what road rules say, overtaking anything when you cannot see a clear road that offers enough space to complete the manouvre is dangerous, and I'm sorry Les, I don't understand why you would want to endanger yourself and others, which clearly you were doing when the photos were taken.

 

Could / should the cyclists have been bahaving differently? It depends, but from the photos it appears to me that overtaking a single cyclist in that situation would have been potentially dangerous, and if they had all have been strung out in single file then you would have needed much greater length of free road space to overtake, perhaps they shouldn't be allowed to be on the road at all?. 

 

Yes it would be good if there were cycle lanes everywhere, but that just isn't viable in the short term.

 

One other thought, if every cyclist were in a car, what impact would that have on traffic congestion, parking and the environment?

 

When we're on the road we all take up space and, it could be said, get in each other's way, but roads are ours to use and enjoy, not mine of yours!  Let's just share and be safe!

 

Leonie

07:10 AM   04-Feb-18

Napier

Martin T, thank you for your post. I note that under " Your Responsibities as a Cyclist" general considerations for group cycling, it does state that " there must never be more than 2 cyclists next to each other. When the road is narrow or vehicles cannot pass, everyone should cycle in single file". 

Martin T

08:36 AM   04-Feb-18

Upper Moutere

Yes Leonie it does and in most situations this makes perfect sense to me. However my aim is not to find definitive rights and wrongs, but to raise awareness and encourage all road users to show due consideration to others. Sadly however I recognise that are people in all walks of life who are selfish and behave in ways that take no account of others: perhaps they make short term gains, but at what long term cost?

Martin T

03:47 PM   04-Feb-18

Upper Moutere

Thanks Les: understood and appreciated. For me the whole thread has had the potentilly valuable benefit of reminding us to consider how we treat others on the road and that our presence can and does affect others in a way that can have significant consequences.

Step into van

by JRJ

[ 2 ]

JRJ

10:32 PM   01-Jul-17

Tauranga

I have a 2017 Tracker EKS. When you enter the motorhome there is a step up from the electric step into the inside of the motorhome.

I have had a situation where someone who had never been in the motorhome before wasnt watching and actually fell into the step and fell out the door - how she didn't break her leg was amazing.

 

Has anyone else experienced this and if so any suggestions to solve the problem. 

 

Janice

Adam1

03:08 PM   03-Nov-18

Janice just let people know to watch their step. And there's a good old saying look before you leap😎👍

Snow Driving?

by Bruce -Yvonne

[ 2 ]

Bruce -Yvonne

02:42 PM   29-Jul-16

Christchurch

I have yet to drive my Apache 700 in snowy conditions. Do otheres out there have advice to offer? ie Snow Chains.

The Sutherlands

06:33 PM   04-Aug-16

Auckland

You will now appreciate the benefit of front wheel drive in snowy conditions but always heed the warning of the AA and if they say "fit chains " then fit them-mind you the thought of unhooking from power and travelling in snow is not appealing so stay put. Snow is not too bad, its ice you have to worry about