iMotorhome New Zealand Issue 1 – 5 Nov 2016

New Zealand

iMotorhome Issue 01: Nov 05 2016

Win!

$50 for the! best letter

Bürstner’s Ixeo 680G has a lowering bed that’s something to behold..

touring te st

Roller Team

Rambl er!

2 About iMotorhome

iMotorhome New Zealand magazine is published on the first Saturday of each month and is available by free subscription from www.imotorhome.co.nz.

Reader contributions are always welcome!

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Published by iMotorhome

Design and Production

PO Box 1738, Bowral.

NSW 2776. Australia.

Lead Designer

ABN: 34 142 547 719

E: chris@imotorhome.co.nz

Christopher O'Hare

T: +614 14 604 368 E: info@imotorhome.co.nz W: www.imotorhome.co.nz Editorial

Legal

Publisher/Managing Editor

© 2016 iMotorhome. All content of iMotorhome New Zealand Magazine and website is copyright and cannot be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of content, however no responsibility is accepted for any inconvenience and/or loss arising from reading and/or acting upon information contained within iMotorhome New Zealand Magazine or any iMotorhome websites.

Richard Robertson T: 0414 604 368 E: richard@imotorhome.co.nz Editor Malcolm Street E: malcolm@imotorhome.co.nz

3

The Price is Right

Automatic

Central heating

Drive on a car licence

Carado T339

Start living the dream with the affordable Carado range of premium motorhomes – quality without compromise.

The lure of the open road beckons, whether it’s just you and your other half or you’re a new family ready for the joy of discovery.

The impressive Carado lineup offers the comfort and style you expect from Europe’s leading motorhome manufacturer at an irresistible price.

All the features you need to relax and explore in a classic motorhome.

It’s your turn to be envied.

View our full range at smartrv.co.nz or visit us in Auckland or Christchurch.

743

$132,900

4

Carado T448

4

743

$136,900

Bürstner Nexxo T690G 230

738

$136,900

2

1

Bürstner Elegance i840G

4

230

Carado T449 – Automatic

232

4

232

232

Carado T449 – Manual

699

$149,900

861

$246,900

Prices include GST and on roads costs. Prices and specifications are current as at November 2016 but are subject to change.

The SmartRV team’s commitment to providing us with what can only be described as an exemplary level of customer and after-sales service is fantastic and is a credit to the team and the company.

Paul Goonan & Murray Patton

Exclusively distributed in New Zealand by

11 Pavilion Drive, Airport Oaks, Auckland | 3 Export Ave, Harewood, Christchurch | 0800 005 312 | imotorhome@smartrv.co.nz | smartrv.co.nz For opening hours see smartrv.co.nz

4 Street view

Kia ora!

E

Haere mai to the inaugural edition of iMotorhome New Zealand! It’s something that we have long talked about but not really had the resources to fully commit to. So to date what we have done is have New Zealand and Australian motorhomes together in our Australian magazine.

Hopefully, with good advertiser support we’ll have separate publications from now on in.

In case you are wondering how we are planning on running this from Australia, it’s quite simple.

We very much live in a global world and living on Australia’s East Coast it’s much quicker for us to fly to New Zealand than to the western side of our own country. We also have some very good, long term RV contacts in NZ! This might sound like a slightly immodest claim, but I’m probably one of the few RV journalists on either side of the Tasman who has a good understanding of the recreational vehicle industry in both our countries. My first ever motorhome trip was in a Bedford CF-based C-class motorhome in New Zealand, travelling through both north to south in 1978 (that’s where I developed my quirky interests in Bedford CFs!). Since that time I’ve been a frequent visitor both for work and pleasure. Over the years I have also done work from time to time for most of the NZ RV publications and have maintained a considerable interest in the local industry.

I’m also something of an avid snow skiier, so a winter visit is always on the cards. As well, I’ve used various motorhomes to explore some of the well known and not-so-well-known corners of New Zealand and these have alway been fun trips.

One of the issues that we have long known about is that although both the NZ and Aussie motorhomes scenes have a number of similarities, including in some cases the same motorhomes, there are definite differences too. For a start, there’s

the percentage of motorhomes to caravans. In Australia it’s something like 85% caravans to 15% motorhomes. For many years in NZ that figure was reversed, but these days it’s about 60% motorhomes and 40% caravans.

Apart from anything else, this affects the markets greatly. Australia’s motorhome industry for the most part is home grown. There are a small number of imports but restrictive compliance requirements make competition from overseas very difficult. In New Zealand, of course, things are very different.

There have been a number of changes over the past decade and imports have made a considerable difference to the market. Local manufacturers will undoubtedly say this has been to their detriment, but given the amazingly huge choice of motorhomes available here, you the buyer are the winner.

It’s not all bad for the local manufacturers either. Most have adopted the, “If you cannot beat ‘em, then join ‘em” approach. Now, all major players offer not only their own motorhomes but a line or two of imports.

We know of at least one player who has expanded considerably over the last few years and is making some serious moves to diversify into the service side of the industry. Earlier this year our publisher Richard and I visited the Covi Show in Auckland and almost couldn’t believe the enthusiasm level amongst the dealers and manufacturers, compared to the Australian scene. One of the global shows many of us aspire to one day attend happens in Dusseldorf, Germany. It’s an excellent overview of everything RV in Europe. The cost of getting there is one of the biggest hurdles but an excellent and more affordable small scale alternative for us is a visit to something like the aforementioned show – such is the diversity of vehicles on display.

We’ll be endeavouring to bring you as much news as we can of the local NZ industry, as well as motorhome reviews and some great travel and destination items. Naturally we welcome reader contributions, and don’t forget we pay $50 for the best letter submitted every month! Having shared something of my RV CV, it’s over to you!

Malcolm

Header 5

EHaere mai to the inaugural edition of iMotorhome New Zealand!

6 Contents

2

About Us

8

Behind the Wheels

Who we are, where and other legal stuff

What he said

4

Street View Kia ora!

News

10

What’s happening in the wider RV world and beyond

16

Day Test: Burtsner Ixeo 680G

28

Touring Test: Roller Team Rambler

42

Technical: A Clear and Present Danger!

48

Travel

52

MobileTech

56

What’s On?

62

Next Issue

Here’s a motorhome with an unusual lengthways roof bed…

Malcolm rambles around NZ’s ski fields in this interesting Italian ex-rental…

Collyn River’s in-depth look at the perils of LPG

Overnight Ferry

50

CamperMate app

What’s on around New Zealand over the next three months…

What’s coming up and which shows are on soon!

Roadside Eats Silly Bugger!

Header 7

8 Behind the Wheels

What He Said Kia ora, as Malcolm has already said, and welcome to the first issue of iMotorhome New Zealand. Malcolm has also addressed how this magazine will work and the many differences between the New Zealand and Australian motorhome markets. I just want to add another dimension to our welcome, but first a little background…

My RV history goes back to 1981 and an orange and white ’74 pop-top Kombi. It was an 1800cc auto; perhaps the slowest vehicle ever made. But it was fun – even if it wallowed around corners when it did manage to accumulate any speed. In 1982/83 things moved up a notch and I drove a Bristol Lodekka double-deck bus around Europe and as far east as Syria, for Top Deck Travel. Fitted out as a big campervan and filled with young Kiwis and Aussies, little did I know or dream it would be the shape of career things to come.

Malcolm and I met working for a major Australian publisher, after which I bought a grey import Toyota HiAce 4x4 diesel auto fitted out as a high-roof campervan. Not a whole lot faster than the old Kombi (okay, quite a lot really), it stayed with us for a couple of years before we moved on to a small 12ft poptop caravan, complete with a slide-out bed and rear corner bathroom. But that’s another story. Now, iMotorhome Australia has Project Polly, an ex-Apollo Rentals 2010 Ford Transit Euro Tourer van conversion, who has become famous in her own right as readers follow the trials and tribulations of upgrading and personalising ‘our girl’.

All this leads me to the point I really want to make: iMotorhome isn’t part of a large publishing business run by bean counters and/ or reporting to shareholders. We’re owned and run by enthusiasts – primarily me and Malcolm – who are living the life and experiencing the joys and frustrations only RVers understand.

We also have deep knowledge accumulated over many years in RV journalism and aren’t just journo’s on a gig climbing the career ladder to corporate stardom. Of course we need to make money to keep bringing you each issue, but profit is a goal, not the end game and we truly love what we do. Well, most days…

If you’re new to us then welcome aboard! If you’re an iMotorhome reader from Australia you’ll recognise changes to both titles, now we’re ‘multinational’. I also think you’ll enjoy this magazine. New Zealand has a unique motorhome market and is a truly delightful country to tour in.

We look forward to a long, involved, fruitful and rewarding experience with you, our readers, so please feel free to email or call. We also welcome your feedback and involvement in helping us choose the right direction by supplying content you enjoy and look forward to reading. And like Malcolm also said, Haere ra. Until next month!

Richard

Header 9

10 News

Latest News NEWS WANTED If you, your company or organisation have topical news to share with the wider motorhome community then let iMotorhome New Zealand know. Reader letters relating to news, articles in this issue or other topics are also encouraged. Send all correspondence and images to editor@imotorhome.co.nz and we’ll do our best to include it.

61ST NATIONAL RALLY FIRST For the first time in its history the NZMCA will not be holding its National Rally over Easter. Instead it will be earlier – 2327 February 2017 – at Nelson, to take advantage of warmer temperatures that should make the area a very special place to visit.

Much is planned at the rally itself, but there will be other events either side of the rally dates. Things like the Music in the Mountains (27 Jan) and the Buller Gorge Country Music Festival (3 Feb) will keep music lovers happy. Of course the Marlborough Wine and Food Festival (11 Feb) is not to be missed, neither is the Nelson Wine and Food Festival (18 Feb) a few days later.

Registrations for the rally are open now.

SUPERSHOW GETTING CLOSER Getting in very early for next year, a date for your diary is 17-19 March for the Covi Motorhome, Caravan and Outdoor Supershow. Held at the ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane in Auckland the show will be held over three days and as usual, there will be an NZMCA rally in conjunction with the show. Be there!

12 News

MOTORHOME RENTAL BARGAINS A great way of getting a motorhome trip on the cheap is to do a relocation for one of the rental companies. Check out www.imoova.com and see just what is available. Of course there are plenty of relocations available in both New Zealand and Australia but if you fancy somewhere like the USA, Canada or even Europe, then those are available too. The best relocations often go quickly, so don’t hesitate!

2017 BENIMARS The TrailLite team says it is excited about the arrival of the 2017 Benimar Models which feature upgrades, an on-trend look and feel and specification they claim have never seen before in ‘value’ motorhomes.

TrailLite says the new 2017 Benimars really are a cut above anything else currently offered in the NZ market at this price point and represent even more value than ever before. The other thing TrailLite is excited about is introducing new floor plans to the Benimar range, adding more variety, options and depth to an already extensive collection of motorhomes and caravans.

The company says it is offering all upgrades, including KiwiSat automatic satellite dish as standard, in the same low-cost high-value equation that Benimars have become known for in New Zealand, with a starting price from $132,000 TrailLite says it has limited stocks of the new 2017 Benimars available for sale and handover prior to Christmas and is encouraging anyone interested in exploring availability to get in touch with them quickly at sales@traillite.co.nz or by phoning 09 238 6869.

News 13

NOMAD DREAMS A recent report in the Manawatu Standard on a rally in Manfeild over the Labour Day weekend makes interesting reading as it attempted to convey the Grey Nomad lifestyle to a wider audience. It read: Waking up in the morning without anywhere to be and nothing but the open road stretching ahead of them is everyday life for Graeme and Lyn Hauley. The couple, who sold their house in favour of a mobile home, are some of the 200 owners settling in at Manfeild over the Labour Day weekend. The couple said New Zealand's "explosive" house prices would lead to more people living on the road.

"We'd actually encourage selling and getting a mobile home. It costs us $450 a year for registration and heavy vehicle kilometres and we'd just about pay that every month when we had a fixed house," Graeme said.

The couple sold their 10-acre (4-hectare) property on the Napier-Taihape road last year and have enjoyed the freedom of their new 12-metre, 6500-tonne moving house.

"We've slowed down and basically retired. We don't have lawns to mow. If we want a change of scenery we pack up and drive off. We don't have problems with tenants from hell. It's the perfect lifestyle really."

To read the article in full click here

14 News

BÜRSTNER LYSEO SmartRV says Lyseo is a name discerning Kiwis will be getting to know since the model was launched as part of the 2017 showcase for Europe’s leading motorhome maker Bürstner.

SmartRV had a ringside seat at the unveiling, sending sales leader Samantha Kidson and marketing & projects manager Teearn Falconer to the annual dealer conference at Bürstner’s head office in Kehl, Germany.

“It was exciting to be among the first in the world to get an exclusive look at the new Lyseo range,” said Samantha. “As we’ve come to expect from Bürstner, they’re brimming with new features and in another first, the range includes both fully-integrated and semi-integrated models.”

The new Lyseo range is made up of three vehicle types: the Lyseo T, Lyseo A and Lyseo E with only the T to be launched this year.

The new features include a broader exterior, a more spacious interior, an L-shaped kitchen with greater work surface, and larger group seating in the living area. There’s also an ergonomic bathroom featuring a shower basin without a step, more height in the shower and no wheel arches.

The Lyseo range offers layouts with or without a drop down bed, meaning the same motorhome can be configured as a two or four berth. They’ve also come up with a floor plan with a rear lounge, which it says Kiwis will love.

The dealer conference also signalled how Bürstner is simplifying their ranges so customers can easily see the product and price difference among the various vehicles.

For further details call 0800 007 627 or email sales@smartrv.co.nz

News 15

MOTORHOME AIRBNB? For people who don’t own a motorhome, Mighway is a new service that claims to make it easy to organise a short or long term rental.

“We’re the Airbnb for motorhomes in New Zealand,” says Jason Nockels of Mighway. “We connect motorhome owners with guests from New Zealand and around the world. We’ve got over 300 vehicles on the platform now so we’ve seen significant growth in less than a year. We’ve got everything from small vans for two people to converted buses that can sleep six or more.”

“Motorhome accommodation is a popular option for events or festivals, but quite often the commercial fleets have long rental periods. With Mighway, while some of our owners have a minimum rental period, it varies and tends to be a much shorter timeframe than the commercial fleets.”

Mighway is also open to motorhome owners looking to earn a return on their idle vehicles. To find more about rentals or renting, call 0800 555 696 during business hours.

CHANGES COMING Traillite will unveil more than 50 changes to its 2017 model range at the Covi Supershow in March next year.

The company says what makes the upgrades so revolutionary is that a lot have come directly from their large team of product designers – that is TrailLite customers and owners!

“Part of what makes us unique is that we treat our customers like family and we listen to you guys about what it’s like to holiday in our motorhomes. What this means is that with the help of our team of over 1000 product designers we can continue to be the best way to holiday and the ultimate motorhome on the road,” a spokesman said.

The company says to watch this space for the release of all the new 2017 TrailLite Models and to follow them on Facebook to keep up to date.

16 Day Test - Bürstner Ixeo IT608G

Lower Behold!

Bürstner’s Ixeo IT608G has a lowering bed that’s something to behold…

by Malcolm Street

I’m going to let you into a little motorhoming secret. One you should not share with your Aussie friends across in the Western Island, otherwise they will arrive in great numbers.

In the world of motorhomes you have a much more interesting selection of vehicles available.

Whilst the Australian market is still very much home grown (and some might say protected) the selection of motorhomes available here – from Britain, Germany, Italy, Spain and France

– is definitely worth a trip across the Tasman for the Aussies.

That little thought crossed my mind as I looked over the Bürstner Ixeo IT680G that I’d picked up from Smart RV in Christchurch. As you may be able to tell from the photos, it wasn’t exactly a warm day for my photo shoot and the temptation to just sit inside and enjoy the warm interior was strong, but I persisted and braved the cold to get a few exterior photos.

Day TesT 17

It’s a Numbers Game

L

ike many a Bürstner motorhome the Ixeo IT 680G is built on a Fiat Ducato Multijet 130 cab-chassis. Translating the numbers means it comes with the lowest powered turbo-diesel engine in the Fiat range, packing just 96 kW and 320 Nm. I’m guessing it’s historical but I’ve always wondered why Fiat still use horsepower (as in 130) in their model designation? I also wonder why a classy motorhome like the 680G comes with the lowest powered engine as standard?

What’s definitely interesting about the 680G is the body shape. Although it’s a streamlined B class motorhome – ‘semi integrated’ in Bürstner speak – the slight roof bulge behind the driver’s cab gives a clue to something a little bit different.

Whichever way you look at it the Ixeo 680G is distinctive. The elongated roof bulge discreetly houses the longitudinal drop-down bed while preserving its overall streamlined appeal, while at the rear the shapely mouldings with integrated bumper are a change from the usual. Overall use of body colour and striping also adds to its upmarket image.

18 DAY TEST18

Body Matters

I

have to say that the champagne body colour really sets the motorhome off. Bürstner has used its standard structure for the body, which means the walls are an aluminium/XPS hard foam/wood veneer composite whilst the roof has a similar make up, except it’s covered in Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP), which is fibreglass to you and me. Underneath, the floor has GRP on both sides of the XPS foam, along with a sheet of PVC for the upper surface that Bürstner reckons keeps the noise factor down.

In keeping with most of its contemporaries, Bürstner have fitted swing-out style doubleglazed and tinted acrylic windows all round, except by the entry door. There, it has sensibly fitted a sliding window to avoid possible damage from the opening door. On the subject of the 700 mm wide entry door, it’s centrally locked with the cab doors. That means apart from the ignition key there’s just one key for everything else!

Undoubtedly the feature of interest for anyone who wishes to carry a bulky load like golf clubs or folding bicycles is the large rear tunnel boot that has an almost full-height door on one side and a half-height door on the other. It might sound a bit odd, but I reckon it’s typical of German motorhome design-thinking in that it provides very flexible use of space.

About half way down the nearside is a small hatch that Bürstner rather appropriately calls the Service Unit. Apart from conventional items like the water tank filler and 230 V mains connection, behind the door is also to be found the fresh water tank drain point, the water heater/space heater drain point and a large cap that gives access into the water tank (for cleaning). There’s also a shut off valve for the water heater that kicks in if the outside temperature really drops and the water pipes freeze. Everything is located in the one place, which is really handy.

Above: The right-side entry door has a bin and large window, plus there’s a moulded-in step for ease of entry. Below: Boot access at the rear is easy, with good space for bulky items like bikes or golf clubs.

DAY TEST 19

Quality upholstery adds a luxury feel and extends to the cab seats. As shown here the table lowers, enabling the dinette to become a second bed.

Both cab seats swivel around and so work in well with the L-shaped lounge Moving Indoors

I

nside, the 680G looks to have quite a compact layout but it really isn’t; the midpositioned entry door (on the ‘wrong’ side) gives access to the kitchen and bathroom to the rear, and the lounge/bedroom to the front.

Digressing slightly, the 680G has a Truma Combi 6 water and space heater. Bürstner don’t just install the heater with a few piped air vents in appropriate places. Instead, air spaces are created behind the seats and beds and warm air is driven by convection up the walls to create an air barrier and thus provide more even space heating. Very clever.

Like quite a few other features in this motorhome, the front area is multi-functional.

Both cab seats swivel around and so work in well with the L-shaped lounge, which is behind

the passenger seat, and the small sideways lounge against the offside wall. There’s a table in between, of course, which sits on a multi position leg and can be reached from all seats.

A point of note is that the table mounting is quite stable, something I have not often found.

The lighting in this area is quite good, with the combination of a central ceiling light and LED strip lights fitted both along and under the overhead lockers on both sides.

The floor area around the dinette is raised slightly which allows for a couple of discrete under-floor storage compartments – nice and handy for small items that are best kept out of sight. Like most of the rest of the cupboards, the overhead lockers also have shelves fitted.

20 DAY TEST

Multi Function and More

P

art of the multi-functionality of this area is the bed. No, it’s not fiddling around with lowered tables and seat cushions, although you can do that if a second bed is needed. It’s more like push a button and a north-south bed 2.00 m x 1.38 m (6’ 7” x 4’ 6”) majestically descends from the ceiling – hence the reason for the roof bulge.

About the only inconvenience is you still have to lower the table. At the bed head, a sort-of hood opens out that gives privacy from the front cab. I have to say it’s all a very smooth operation and much better than some clunky arrangements I have seen. As part of the dual function for everything the wand-style cab seat reading lights also double as bed reading lights.

It’s possible to get the roof bed down to a very low height, but if more beds are need it can be lifted to give access to the 2.11 m x 1.54-1.41 m (6’ 11” x 5’ - 4’ 8”) dinette bed underneath.

Top to bottom: The lowering north-south bed is a departure from the usual east-west arrangement, but works well. It also leaves the cupboards in position, although it does mean occupants all have to go to bed at the same time.

Overall, the interior looks good and has a genuine quality feel.

DAY TEST 21

Meal Time!

W

hat can I say about the L-shaped kitchen, except that it’s very much in the European style – meaning small. Fitted into the bench top are a round stainless steel sink, an elongated three-burner hob and a nominal amount of work space.

General storage is quite plentiful with shelffitted overhead lockers, three drawers under the main bench area and cupboard on both sides. The cupboard behind the lounge seat sits higher than the rest of the kitchen and as a consequence not only acts as a barrier but also offers more storage space. It’s also the location for the gas shut off valves. Across the aisle is the 146-litre 3-way fridge with an oven/grill above, although the latter item might be a bit awkward for shorter persons.

Between the fridge and entry door is a nonkitchen item, a reasonably sized wardrobe that offers both hanging space above and general space (for shoes maybe?) below. The wardrobe framework is also a convenient place for the hot water/space heater controls.

Top: The L-shaped kitchen is compact but functional. Note the handy shelf on the bathroom wall and good use of concealed lighting. Right: This shallow kitchen cupboard in the back of the lounge provides useful additional storage and access to the cooker’s gas valves.

22 DAY TEST

Cleaning Up

A

cross the rear of the 680G is the highly deceptive bathroom. It does of course contain essential features like the nearside moulded shower cubicle, the offside cassette toilet and mid-section vanity cabinet, complete with small wash basin and mirror.

However, there is also a surprising amount of cupboard space built into the rear wall on either side of the mirror. There really shouldn’t be any complaints about a general lack of storage – it’s really quite amazing!

There really shouldn’t be any complaints about a general lack of storage Right: A seperate shower in the rear corner bathroom is a welcome inclusion. Bottom: There’s good room on either side of the hand basin, plus a large bathroom mirror.

What I think

G

enerally speaking, this is quite an impressive motorhome where everything fits together very well and operates at it should. Those who like a fixed bed layout might not be so impressed but there are other Bürstner floor plans available and this one certainly offers plenty of flexibility in its use of interior space. Especially in the front, which can easily seat four people and with a little bit of compromise sleep them as well. Overall, this is a very neatly set up and well thought out motorhome that really is something to behold…

DAY TEST 23

"this is quite an impressive motorhome where everything fits together very well"

24 DAY Header TEST 24

Specs GENERAL Make

Bürstner

Model

Ixeo IT680G

Type

B Class

Berths

4

Approved Seating

4

Licence

Car

VEHICLE Make/Model

Fiat Ducato Multijet 130

Engine

2.3 L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Power

96 kW @ 3600 rpm

Torque

320 Nm @ 1800 rpm

Gearbox

6-speed automated manual transmission (AMT)

Safety

ESP, ABS, Traction Control, Hill Holder, Dual Airbags

Fuel

90 L

WEIGHTS Tare Weight

3120 kg

Gross Vehicle Mass

3500/3850 kg WOF/COF

Max Payload

380/730 kg WOF/COF

Braked Towing Capacity

2000 kg

DIMENSIONS Overall Length

6.99 m (22’ 11”)

Overall Width

2.30 m (7’6”)

Overall Height

2.98 m (9’ 9”)

Internal Height (minimum)

1.98 m (6’ 6”)

Main Bed

2.00 m x 1.38 m (6’ 7” x 4’ 6”)

Luton Bed

2.11 m x 1.54-1.41 m (6’ 11” x 5’ - 4’ 8”)

Dinette Bed

1.90 m x 1.22 m (6’ 3” x 4’)

DAY TEST 25

Specs

Pros

EQUIPMENT Slide-Out

No

Awning

No

Entry Steps

Moulded in

Hob

Dometic 3 burner

Rangehood

Yes

Sink

Round stainless steel

Fridge

146 L Dometic RMLT 3-way

Microwave

No

Lighting

12 V LED

12 V Sockets/USB Outlets

In cab only

Air Conditioner

No

Space Heater

Truma Combi 6 LPG/electric

Hot Water System

Truma Combi 6 LPG/electric

Toilet

Thetford cassette

Shower

Separate cubicle

• Stylish looks • Generous external storage • Smoothly operating main bed • Multifunctional front lounge/ bedroom area • Good lighting in all areas • Well fitted out for self contained travel

Cons

• 96 kW/320 Nm engine lacks a little grunt • No fixed bed so everyone goes to sleep at once • Oven/grill set fairly high • Handing the keys back!

CAPACITIES Batteries

2 x 90 AH

Inverter

800 W

Solar

1 x 150 W

LPG

2 x 9 kg

Fresh Water

120 L

Grey Water

90 L

Hot Water

10 L

Toilet

19 L

PRICE Driveway from

$161,900

Warranty – Vehicle

2 years

Warranty – Body

2 years plus 5 years water tight (conditions apply)

Warranty – Appliances

2 years

Contact: South Island Click for Google Maps Smart RV 11 Pavilion Drive Airport Oaks, Auckland. 2022.

T: 0800 007 627 E: sales@smartrv.co.nz W: smartmotorhomes.co.nz North Island Click for Google Maps Smart RV 3 Export Ave Harewood. ChCh. 8051.

T: 0800 007 628 E: ccsales@smartrv.co.nz W: smartmotorhomes.co.nz

26 Header 26

THE GREATEST ADVENTURE IS WHAT LIES ON THE ROAD AHEAD

Header 27

Life in Motion

Automatic

Drive on a car licence

Central heating

Bürstner Ixeo IT728G

Enjoy the ride in distinctive style and unparalleled comfort that can only be experienced in a European crafted motorhome.

Journey through the best years of your life in a motorhome of your dreams from our extensive fleet of luxury vehicles.

Call us today and put yourself in the picture.

View our full range at smartrv.co.nz or visit us in Auckland or Christchurch.

699

$149,900

2

2

Bürstner Ixeo IT728G

699

$161,900

4

Bürstner Ixeo IT734

4

749

$171,900

Bürstner Elegance i840G

4

230

Bürstner Ixeo IT680G

230

1

230

2

230

230

Bürstner Nexxo T690G

749

$171,900

861

$246,900

Prices include GST and on roads costs. Prices and specifications are current as at November 2016 but are subject to change.

Nothing is too much trouble for the team at SmartRV. Their service is great and they always do the best they can. Their company and their friendly and professional staff stand out a mile. The SmartRV team are awesome!

Anne Peppercorn, Whangarei

Exclusively distributed in New Zealand by

11 Pavilion Drive, Airport Oaks, Auckland | 3 Export Ave, Harewood, Christchurch | 0800 005 312 | imotorhome@smartrv.co.nz | smartrv.co.nz For opening hours see smartrv.co.nz

28 Touring Test: Roller Team Rambler

Rambling Along!

An NZ ski adventure in a Roller Team Rambler…

by Malcolm Street

Touring Test 29

O

ccasionally in this business one gets to combine a bit of business with pleasure. A few days on the ski slopes of Cardrona and Treble Cone on New Zealand’s stunning South Island were very much on the agenda this winter and it seemed reasonable to use a motorhome for that little sojourn.

The RV Super Centre’s Steve Lane and Tony Sutton were kind enough to make a Roller Team Rambler available to me and so I flew to Christchurch with a load of ski gear and collected the motorhome from their depot.

It’s conveniently close to the airport and if you happen to arrive on one of those charming but cheap late night flights there’s a hotel very close by so you can be up bright and early ready to go next morning.

Background

A

little bit of background on the Rambler.

It’s built in Italy by Roller Team, part of the very large Trigano group, and gets to New Zealand via Britain. THL, the parent group

of the RVSC and also Maui/Britz/Kea amongst others, also have a large share of a British motorhome rental company, Just Go. That company buys new Roller Team motorhomes, uses them for a year in Britain and then sends them to New Zealand for sale. In short, what that means is you get a little-used motorhome at a substantial discount on a new one.

So how does a former British rental motorhome look when it hits the ground in New Zealand?

Let’s take a look. The Rambler is a six berth motorhome and the first one of these I had a brief look at last year had the entry door on the driver’s side, but that’s now been swapped to the kerbside. Also of note is the very large storage bin at the driver’s side rear. It’s actually the under bed but is certainly large enough to accommodate a considerable amount of gear – including I should point out – several pairs of snow skis, which can be fitted in diagonally.

That was about the first thing I noticed when trying to load all the paraphernalia that goes with skiing, into the motorhome

The Rambler is built in Italy, spends a season as a rental in the UK then arrives in NZ with 25-35,000 km on the clock and an attractive price tag. A six-berth C-Class well suited to family travel, the design also works for a couple who like alternative sleeping options and/or occasional travel with children.

30 Touring Test Down to Business…

L

ooking very familiar is the motive power for the Rambler – a Fiat Ducato. In this case it’s a Multijet 130, which translated from Fiat language means a 2.3-litre 96 kW/320 Nm turbo-diesel with the 6-speed automated manual transmission (AMT).

With a tare of just under 3000 kg the Rambler isn’t a particularly heavy motorhome, so on the road the engine performed willingly most of the time. However, on steep hills it struggled at times – and there are certainly a few steep hills in NZ! Like many in the RV business in Australia

I have become accustomed to the largest and most powerful of the Fiat engines as standard (think Multijet 160 and later 180) and so I find the smaller engines a bit lacking.

Roller Team seem to follow many of their contemporaries in the way their motorhomes are built, using a composite wall and roof structure. The walls having an external covering of fibreglass with laminated plastic for the inside and Styrofoam and extruded plastic in between. The roof is much the same, except the interior sheeting is fibreglass in a similar style to the floor, but the later is 54 mm thick for a bit of extra strength where it counts. Roller

Left: The mains power connector has a strap to hold the lead off the ground, reducing the chance someone can trip over it.

Below: It’s interesting that although this is the current X295-series Fiat Ducato it retains the older style instrument cluster, which is far more readable than the new style.

Note reversing camera display on the rear-view mirror.

Touring Test 31

Team must have a great deal of confidence in the way it builds its products because it offers a 10 year body integrity warranty.

Just on a side issue, like many a British and European RV manufacturer, Roller Team spend a bit of time on air circulation by doing things like venting wall units to keep the temperature

constant throughout and prevent condensation, which is something of a problem in cooler climates. To that end the windows are interesting – acrylic double glazed as usual – but a mixture of hoppers and sliders. I’d have thought, given the weather in Europe, hoppers might have been used all round to keep the rain out.

Apart from the aforementioned storage bin at the rear there aren’t any other external bins apart from those required for the toilet cassette and gas cylinder, with the latter located between the passenger door and motorhome entry door.

On the subject of gas, there is but one 9 kg cylinder, but I must confess to being a fan of having a pair of

Roller Team must have a great deal of confidence in the way it builds its products because it offers a 10 year body integrity warranty.

32 Touring Test Bottom: The bed in the Luton is the largest in the vehicle and has good head room, although the TV’s location appears to impede access somewhat. Right: For a European motorhome the kitchen is a good size. It's also wellequipped, while the use of concealed LED strip lighting is functional as well as stylish.

4.5 kg cylinders instead. In my case it’s quite a practical preference because the cylinder ran out on a subzero night at Lake Tekapo. Without the ability to fire up the LP gas heater it was a rather chilly sleep and I had to wait until next morning to get the cylinder refilled. This might of course also be a good argument for a dieselfired heater! The situation turned out to be an unintended test on the Rambler’s insulation and I reckon it worked very well. What little heat I did generate inside kept it (relatively) warmer than outside.

Moving Inside

T

he Rambler’s layout clearly suits a rental operation. A six-berth unit, there’s a double bed in the Luton above the cab; the dinette directly behind the driver’s seat converts into another double, while the main bed fits into the rear driver’s side corner. That leaves enough room for a bathroom in the opposite rear corner, a kerbside kitchen ahead and a waist-high cabinet between the entry

Touring Test 33

With a tare of just under 3000 kg the Rambler isn’t a particularly heavy motorhome.

34 Touring Test

Above: Despite running out of gas for the central heating one night the Rambler’s insulation did a reasonable job of retaining interior warmth. Right: This unit between the entry door and cab provides valuable bench space and houses the crockery and other items, but prevents the passenger seat from swivelling. door and passenger cab seat. Because of the layout, neither cab seat swivels but I have to say that a swivelling passenger seat would be good when moving to and from the driver’s cab, if nothing else because the dinette seatback makes manoeuvring through a little tight.

Looking fairly stylish, especially for a rental motorhome, is the décor. Very much European, it features dark-patterned timber veneer melamine cabinetry, with white lacquered overhead lockers, white bench tops and two colour faux leather on the dinette seating.

Although there wasn’t an external light there certainly was plenty of internal lighting – direct, indirect and mood. Indeed, for a former rental motorhome it was very well set up indeed.

Touring Test 35

Decor is clean, bright and modern while the cupboard’s flat surfaces and leatherette dinette upholstery make for easy cleaning.

Meal Time and More

G

iven Euro motorhomes aren’t noted for their large kitchens, I found the Rambler’s larger than most. Fitted into the benchtop is a combo three burner cooktop and stainless steel sink, while under the benchtop is a grill/oven and 96-litre 3-way fridge. That leaves room for four good size drawers (the cutlery drawer is “hidden” behind the rear top drawer) and two overhead lockers.

Since my motorhome was equipped to go it came with all the necessary items, filling much of the cupboard space ,but there was still room for food essentials. I liked the rail across the inside front of the overhead lockers. Although it made getting something like the electric kettle out a bit fiddly, it did mean nothing fell out when the door was opened.

The waist high cabinet between the entry door and cab has a large drawer for all the crockery, plus two shoe holders. Again, being

an ex-rental, the crockery drawer came with a purpose built rack. Although everything still rattled a bit, a towel stuffed into the drawer before driving off sorted that problem out.

Above this cabinet is where the flat screen TV is mounted. It’s probably the most workable of locations but had to be moved around when lifting or dropping the Luton bed. Best viewing angle was undoubtedly from the forward facing dinette seats.

Speaking of the dinette, I used it for eating, relaxing and working purposes. It was reasonably comfortable, although the seat cushions could have done with a bit more Velcro as they seemed to move around when driving. Both a 240V power point and USB charge point were located under the table, but were awkward to get at. Long experience has taught me to carry a power board and the 5V/ USB equivalent, so I just left them plugged in all the time.

36 TOURING TEST

Above: This Roller Team-branded touch-screen for electrics, water, etc is neat and modern. Right: The crockery drawer is a good size and handy to the dinette. Note the cupboards below, which are made for shoe storage and other bulky items.

Apart from running out of gas, when the heater was working it did a great job. Being located under the main bed meant that if left on very low it not only kept the bed warm but any wet ski gear left on the under-bed shelf overnight was warm and dry the next morning.

Nighttime

I

was travelling on my own for this review but six people – probably four adults and two children – could easily travel in the Rambler, with two having to travel backwards on the rear-facing dinette seat.

Bed measurements are 1.96 m x 1.25 m (6’ 5” x 4’ 1”) for the main, 2.01 m x 1.52 m (6’ 7” x 5”) for the Luton and 1.90 m x 1.22 m (6’ 3” x 4’) for the dinette, so all are reasonably sized

TOURING TEST 37

Above: The main bed is in the driver’s side rear corner and a decent size, if not overly wide.

Right: The split wardrobe at the foot of the main bed is also the mounting point for the hot water system control, a light switch and a rather curiously placed USB charging outlet. and a lesser number of travellers could easily opt for a bed each.

As usual with making up a corner bed, fitted sheets or a Duvalay or two are best. I’m not a fan of clambering on a mattress to make up a bed, I’m afraid I’m not patient enough!

Around the main bed, overhead lockers are fitted around the walls and occupants get an LED reading light each. At the foot of the bed, on the side of the wardrobe, is a mounting point for the Truma water heater/space heater controls, light switch for the blue floor-level night-lights and a USB charger point. Whilst the first two were great for late evening/early morning operation and middle of the night loo

38 TOURING TEST

visits, the charger point was useful but oddly located.

In addition to being a switch mounting point the wardrobe offered a relatively generous amount of hanging and storage space, not to mention some handy instructions stuck to the inside of the door.

Next to the bed, in the kerbside corner, the bathroom was very much my style: compact enough so as not to take up too much space but roomy enough to be usable. From back to front were the shower cubicle, cassette toilet and vanity cabinet. There was also a locker above the loo and even a small compartment Clockwise from top left: The bathroom is in the kerb-side rear corner (next to the main bed) and spacious enough to provide a separate shower cubicle.

It also has a corner vanity, good storage and an opening window in addition to the roof hatch, for ventilation. The Rambler’s European heritage was appreciated in the South Island’s wintry conditions.

Right: The Fiamma bike rack on this vehicle was a valuable inclusion. Below: The only external storage locker provided space for all my snow skiing equipment and still had room to spare. The sliding dinette and Luton windows seem unusual, given the Rambler’s European origins, as they can't be left open in the rain (unlike the hopper window at the rear).

Typically Italian, the Luton peak is nicely styled and manages to avoid looking too bulbous. behind it. Ventilation was handled by a hatch above the shower and mid-sized window.

What I think

P

ardon the pun but I enjoyed my little ramble in the Rambler. It’s certainly a nicely set-up motorhome and suited my purposes very well. Although an ex-rental it was certainly in good condition and didn’t really look like one. In fact the only clue was the notice stuck to the inside of the wardrobe door.

Being a six berth it will suit a family very well, but I reckon a couple will be equally at home.

Ramble on I say!

TOURING TEST 39

40 Touring test

Specs GENERAL Make

Roller Team

Model

Rambler

Type

C-class

Berths

6

Approved Seating

6

Licence

Car

VEHICLE Make/Model

Fiat Ducato Multijet 130

Engine

2.3 L 4-cylinder turbo-diesel

Power

96 kW @ 3600 rpm

Torque

320 Nm @ 1800rpm

Gearbox

6 speed AMT

Safety

ABS, ESC, Hill Holder, Dual Airbags

Fuel

90 L

WEIGHTS Tare Weight

2992 kg

Gross Vehicle Mass

3490 kg

Max Payload

498 kg

Braked Towing Capacity

2500 kg

DIMENSIONS Overall Length

6.90 m (22’ 8”)

Overall Width

2.31 m (7’ 7”)

Overall Height

3.20 m (10’ 6”)

Internal Height (minimum)

2.12 m (6’ 10”)

Main Bed

1.96 m x 1.25 m (6’ 5” x 4’ 1”)

Luton Bed

2.01 m x 1.52 m (6’ 7” x 5”)

Dinette Bed

1.90 m x 1.22 m (6’ 3” x 4’)

Touring Test 41

Specs

Pros

EQUIPMENT Slide-Out

No

Awning

No

Entry Steps

Moulded

Hob

Dometic 3 burner + Smev grill/oven

Rangehood

No

Sink

Stainless steel

Fridge

96 L Dometic RM8501 3-way

Microwave

No

Lighting

12 V

12 V Sockets/USB Outlets

2 x USB

Air Conditioner

No

Space Heater

Truma Combi 4

Hot Water System

Truma Combi 4

Toilet

Thetford cassette

Shower

Separate cubicle

• • • • • • • •

Handling Decor Large external bin Internal storage Kitchen size Internal lighting Overall condition Six berth but easily used by two

Cons

• 2.3L 96 kW engine • 240V/5V USB socket locations • No external light • Single LPG cylinder

CAPACITIES Batteries

1 x 95 AH

Solar

1 x 120 W

LPG

1 x 9 kg

Fresh Water

100 L

Grey Water

100 L

Hot Water

10 L

Toilet

Thetford cassette

PRICE As Tested - used 2015 model, approx 30,000 km

$104,990

Contact:

South Island Click for RV Super Centre Google Maps 159 Orchard Road, Christchurch Airport, Christchurch.

T: 0800 52 00 55 E: info@rvsupercentre.co.nz W: rvsupercentre.co.nz North Island Click for Google Maps RV Super Centre 169 Bush Road, Albany, Auckland T: 0800 52 00 55 E: info@rvsupercentre.co.nz W: rvsupercentre.co.nz

42 Technical

A Clear and Present Danger LPG has a dark side you need to be very wary of‌ By Collyn Rivers

T

here are very real risks if LP gas is misused in a caravan or motor home, or any type of RV, tent or annexe. In particular there is a major risk of brain damage at very low levels of carbon monoxide.

The relevant Standard is the joint Australian/ New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 5601.2013.12. Only Part 2 is for RVs: (Gas Installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes). Note that, legally, 'caravans' includes all RVs.

In the Beginning...

A

round 1850, when the first domestically available gas was produced by burning coal, usually as carbon, in the virtual absence of air (about 10% carbon monoxide content), few people knew why it was so lethal.

But the only-too-real danger became quickly known and respected. Following the general acceptance of propane in the 1930s and the later usage of LPG in RVs (and natural gas in homes), much of that respect appeared to become lost.

The reality is not that LPG is safe, but that because its carbon monoxide concentration is lower, it takes longer to kill than it did before.

Nevertheless approximately 30% of people

with severe carbon monoxide poisoning are likely to result in death. [1] In some countries LPG is still the gas most used for deliberate poisoning.

During 2001-2002, carbon monoxide poisoning was responsible for 43.9% of deaths by poisoning in New Zealand.[2] Â That same NZ report also noted that imported LPG portable appliances, certified only for outdoor use, were nevertheless being claimed by their manufacturers and distributors as suitable for indoor use.

It warned that the misuse of such appliances in an indoor environment, including caravans and tents, could be unsafe and potentially fatal. In 2010 an independent report (for NZ Energy Safety) found that there was not a sufficient safety problem to ban their use, but because of fire risk and concerns about ongoing chronic health hazards, additional health and safety warnings were placed on these units at their point of sale.

The Cause of Risk

T

he major risk with LPG (and fossil fuels generally) is that they require a lot of air to burn safely. Burning LPG in an enclosed space decreases the oxygen content and

Technical 43 increases the carbon dioxide concentration.

Further, the amount of air required varies with the nature of that gas. Most RV equipment is designed to run from propane, but if used as some do (illegally as well as dangerously) with Autogas, that gas might well contain a fair amount of butane and thus produces a lot of carbon monoxide through incomplete combustion. A total giveaway is any yellow content in the flame.

As 100% total burning cannot be guaranteed, space heating in Australia, and many other countries, requires the burning process to be external to the space heated.

Australian/New Zealand Standards

T

he above is made totally clear in AS/ NZS AS5601. As with its earlier version, and its predecessor, (AG 601-1995), the appropriate wording states: ‘The following appliances shall not be installed in a caravan *: (c) a space heater, other than a room-sealed type. * (A caravan is defined in AS 5601 as being – ‘a structure that is or was designed or intended to move from one place to another, whether towed or transported, which is intended

Truma E2400 LPG space heater.

for human habitation... and includes a selfpropelled recreational vehicle.’)

Item 6.9.4 of the new Code calls for a permanently legible label with a minimum character height of 4.0 mm to be affixed 'in a conspicuous position on or adjacent to, the '[gas cooking]' appliance and shall provide at least the following information:

WARNING • Ensure ventilation when the cooker is in use.

• Do not use for space heating.

Brain Damage

I

nhaling even relatively small amounts of the gas can lead to hypoxic injury, neurological damage and even death’. [3] Carbon monoxide exposure might lead to a significantly shorter life span due to heart damage. [4] Exposures at 100 ppm (part per million) can be dangerous to human health. [5] Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common cause of injury and death due to poisoning, worldwide. [6]

Ongoing Denial

T

his matter came to a head (in Australia) in early 2012, when three men died in a matter related to carbon monoxide poisoning, in a caravan in Tasmania. Despite the Coroner’s report then being published and ongoing media reports based almost totally on speculation, this was initially met on some Internet forums by a wall of denial from people with no possible knowledge of what had occurred.

44 Technical Australian Government Response Consequent to those deaths, a formal government-related initiative, the ‘Gas Appliances (Carbon Monoxide) Safety Strategy’ was established with the intent of making people – particularly RV users – aware of the risks.

I was asked to assist in preparing the formal submission for the 60,000-plus membership of the Caravan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA). That submission included: ‘Our view is not so much that the existing regulations relating to gas installation in RVs necessarily need changing, but that RV owners do not take the known risks sufficiently seriously. This is shown often, not only on our own (now shut down) website forum, but on other similar RV forums.’

It then noted that: ‘The major risk identified (in our opinion) is that of gas appliances being used in an inappropriate manner, e.g.

LPG gas ovens left on with the door open to provide heat, (plus) steel plates and ceramic pots placed over LPG gas rings for the same purpose. It also alluded to the ongoing illegal use of LPG catalytic heaters ‘in poorly ventilated annexes and within the RV itself.’

The submission also noted: ‘A further issue is the lack of quantitative data on reported incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning in

RVs. This has created a concern because the warnings of the dangers are frequently met by denial on the basis that no hard data is available.'

Quantifying the Risk

A

bout 35 ppm (parts per million) causes headache and dizziness within six to eight hours; 200 ppm (about 0.02%) causes a slight headache within two to three hours, plus loss of judgment; at 800 ppm (0.08%) there is dizziness, nausea, and convulsions within 45 min, insensibility within two hours and death within three hours.

At 1600 ppm (still a mere 0.16%), there is ‘headache, tachycardia, dizziness, and nausea within 20 min. Death occurs in less than two hours. Even at 6400 ppm (0.64%) death occurs inside 20 minutes; and at the far from high 12,800 ppm (1.28%) you become unconscious after 2-3 breaths and will be dead in less than three minutes.[7] To gain some concept of the above levels, the natural atmospheric level is about 0.1 ppm.

The exhaust from a warm car’s exhaust (that lacks a catalytic converter) is 7000 ppm. [8] The above is reflected in the USA’s relevant (OHSA) regulations that limit long-term workplace exposure levels to less than 50 ppm (0.005%) averaged over an 8-hour period. In addition, employees are to be removed from any confined space if an upper limit (‘ceiling’) of 100 ppm is reached.’ [9] The build-up of carbon monoxide is often exacerbated by blocked ventilation, so the risk of brain damage at lower levels of exposure, particularly where ventilation is poor, is only too real. The elderly, children, and people with heart and respiratory problems are likely to suffer from the effects sooner and more severely, as may heavy smokers.

Technical 45 Offering Advice

T

he advice that ‘it is only dangerous if you do not stay awake’ shows an astonishing naïve lack of understanding of the early symptoms. It is in itself dangerous, but to advise others accordingly is naive almost beyond credibility. For anyone still doing this, and some still are, it is advisable to bear in mind that, were someone to die as a result of following such advice, the consequent charge may extend to manslaughter. Further, those inciting others to perform an illegal act may be committing a criminal offence.

cylinder; or a can of petrol that, if carried onto a plane, will almost certainly be designated as a bomb.

Ceramic Pots

A

ceramic device placed over a lighted gas stove for the purpose of space heating is thus liable to be held to be an ‘appliance’ that is intended to be a space heating device for that usage - and therefore prohibited.

The reason why it is so dangerous to do this with (say) a ceramic flower pot or steel or cast iron plate, is that the flame is trapped within an area where air might not flow freely, Appliances – Defined and thus the gas is not fully burned. Then, that seemingly innocent setup is a carbon t is thus for very good reasons that the use monoxide generator – and in some cases of any gas for the purpose of direct space heating in a caravan is illegal in every state of exhibits that by burning with that tell-tale yellowish flame, or forming and depositing Australia and that any cooking appliance used for space heating, by any form of burning gas is soot. defined as a ‘gas appliance’. Many argue that a This was confirmed to me unequivocally by ceramic pot or whatever is ‘not an appliance’, a Gas Regulator in mid June 2009: when but overlook that devices are legally definable in asked specifically if placing a ceramic pot or terms of intent - not necessarily of content. steel plate over a gas ring, or leaving the door A screwdriver may thus be defined as a device open on a lighted oven, with the intent to heat an interior space, it becomes, by definition a for dealing with screws, or in dangerous space heater, he responded ‘my bloody oath’! areas at night, may be defined as an offensive weapon. The same reasoning extends to a gas

I

46 Technical Safe RV Heating Germany's Webasto and Eberspächer companies produce very similar diesel-powered space and space-plus-hot-water power heaters. Truma now has a generally similar LPG powered equivalent. Both draw fresh air from outside and exhaust to the outside too.

These are the only form of heating that can be recommended for RVs. They are fully covered in the author's all-new Caravan and Motorhome Book, and also the second Edition of the author's The Camper Trailer Book published in August 2012. The Eberspächer product in some countries is marketed under the Dometic name and sold by Dometic.

Referenced Papers

New Zealand

U

ntil 2010 the Gas Standard (AS 5601) related only to Australia - primarily because Australia’s LPG is either propane or mostly propane with a small proportion of butane, whilst NZ uses propane and up to 50% butane. Appliances built to burn one form of LPG can be hazardous when used to burn another. The Gas Regulators’ view was that (as with using Autogas illegally to replace LPG) that this posed an unacceptable safety risk respectively to New Zealand and Australian consumers.

This issue was later resolved: including by 'Australian RV appliances increasingly being certified for use with Universal LPG Gas to accommodate the NZ market': (written advice from the NZ Office of Energy Safety, 18/09/2012.) This 'Universal LPG gas' issue affects only Australian gas appliances made for the NZ market.

I normally research topics thoroughly prior to writing anything technical - but rarely include such references in material intended for general reading. I include references (from referred papers from major journals etc) here however in an attempt to stave off 'that’s just your opinion’ responses.

References (general) Gas Installation Code AG 601 - 1995 Published by (Australia’s) The Gas Installation Code Committee.

AS/NZS 5601.2: 2013 Published by Standards Association of Australia.

(Currently downloadable free of charge at https://www. scribd.com/doc/267729821/AS-NZS-5601-2-2013) Report of the (SA) Technical Regulator 2005-2006 Annual Report (p.7).

Office of Gas Safety (Vic) – Guide to Gas Installations in Caravans & Motor homes.

Technical 47 Similar guides are available from all state gas regulatory bodies.

from an unlikely source”. The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice 11 (6): 481–484.

New Zealand (facts and data)

9. “OSHA Fact Sheet: Carbon Monoxide”. United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_General_ Facts/carbonmonoxide-factsheet.pdf.

Permanent Exemption of LPG appliances from the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangements.

(Regulation Impact Statement for Consulation - 2008.)

References (papers) 1. Varon J, Marik PE, Fromm RE Jr, Gueler A (1999).

“Carbon monoxide poisoning: a review for clinicians”.

The Journal of Emergency Medicine 17 (1): 87–93.

2. McDowell R, Fowles J, Phillips D (November 2005). “Deaths from poisoning in New Zealand: 2001-2002”(Free full text). The New Zealand Medical Journal 118 3. Raub JA, Mathieu-Nolf M, Hampson NB, Thom SR (April 2000). “Carbon monoxide poisoning-a public health perspective”. Toxicology 145 (1): 1–14. Raub JA, Mathieu-Nolf M, Hampson NB, Thom SR (April 2000). “Carbon monoxide poisoning-a public health perspective”. Toxicology 145 (1): 1–14

10. http://dspace.rubicon-foundation.org/xmlui/ bitstream/handle/123456789/7964/DHM_V38N3_ breathing_gas.pdf?sequence=1.

Collyn Rivers (© Caravan & Motorhome Books (2016) Church Point, NSW Australia.)

Caravan & Motorhome Books, and Successful Solar Books PO Box 356 Church Point, NSW 2105 (Australia) Tel: 02 9997 1052. caravanandmotorhomebooks.com Email: collynrivers@bigpond.com

Collyn Rivers’ books

4. Henry CR, Satran D, Lindgren B, Adkinson C, Nicholson CI, Henry TD (January 2006). “Myocardial Injury and Long-term Mortality Following Moderate to Severe Carbon Monoxide Poisoning”

Caravan & Motorhome Book the complete guide

5. Prockop LD, Chichkova RI (Nov 2007). “Carbon monoxide intoxication: an updated review”. Journal of the Neurological Sciences 262 (1-2): 122–130.

6. Thom SR (October 2002). “Hyperbaric-oxygen therapy for acute carbon monoxide poisoning”. The New England Journal of Medicine 347 (14): 1105– 1106

The

Camper Trailer Book

Collyn Rivers

7. Carbon Monoxide. Washington, D.C.: National Academy of Sciences. 1977. pp. 29. ISBN 0-30902631-8.

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8. Struttmann T, Scheerer A, Prince TS, Goldstein LA (Nov 1998). “Unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning

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48 Travel

Overnight Ferry!

Forget the Interislander, this is one Ferry you’ll be happy to spend the night on…

F

erry Reserve is a little gem of a free camping spot just under 30 km north-east of Palmerston North and just over 5 km from Woodville. We happened upon it on our travels between Napier and Wellington, while heading for the ‘big’ ferry and would happily have lingered longer had time permitted.

What makes it special is the combination of space and setting: it’s expansive and beautiful.

Set on a bend of the free-flowing Manawatu River just off SH3, Ferry Reserve is ringed by steep hills adorned with wind turbines and has miles of room. It also seems to recently have been ‘made over’ by local authorities and has an all-weather access road that rings the top level of the site. I say top level because the site is stepped, and while there are a number of all-weather parking bays along the road (most

Travel 49 with tables), it’s the lower grassed level that’s most appealing.

Despite the nearby road traffic noise was relatively muted and I’m told there’s a deep hole for swimming beneath the bridge that carries Gorge Road, at the reserve’s eastern end. There’s plenty of space to find your own little piece of tranquility, but just be sure you’re self contained as there are no facilities onsite. Also, if it has rained heavily or looks like raining you might want to overnight ‘on high’ as we did to avoid the possibility of becoming bogged.

Ferry Reserve’s entrance is on the left, just after the Gorge Rd turnoff (if you’re coming from Woodville). It’s discreetly signposted and can therefore be a little difficult to spot, while the entrance road section is a bit steep, but well surfaced. We stayed one night and on leaving after intermittent rain showers after midnight had no trouble getting out in our front-wheel drive Fiat Ducato. All-in-all it’s a highly recommended spot likely to make you want to linger longer – and one ferry you certainly don’t want to miss!

Fast Facts What: Ferry Reserve

Click for Google Maps

Where: Manawatu Gorge, Woodville.

When: Year-round Why: Because it’s spacious and beautiful!

How: 5 km from Woodville on SH3, heading west.

50 Roadside Eats

Silly Buggers!

The Bugger Cafe is a fun place with just a touch of silliness‌

by Richard Robertson

Roadside Eats 51

W

ell I’ll be buggered,” I thought when I saw the sign ahead. “Who’d call a cafe that?” It turns out John Gourley is the man behind the name, drive and much of the success of the Bugger Cafe at Pipiroa (and now open in Tirau); ably assisted by bemused wife Glenda.

The story goes that on a trip from Tauranga to Auckland, John commented on the many cafes along the way and how they seemed to be named after coloured animals. This lead to a conversation about how you can never

remember cafe names, so Glenda asked John what he would call one. “Buggered if I know,” came the reply – and the rest is history!

We were scooting along from Auckland towards Coromandel and in need of coffee when the big red sign and tractor appeared ahead. How could we resist? It was a shame Mrs iMotorhome already had lunch prepared as the menu looked good and the place well patronised for a Monday afternoon. We did, however, sample the take away coffee, which at $5 (50c more than dine-in) was on the dear side, but in their defence, in a big cup.

The menu is split between breakfast and burgers, with each occupying one third of the board. The other third is devoted to coffees, teas, smoothies and their many variations.

Breakfast prices ranged between $9.70 for banana bread served with yoghurt and $19.90 for the Big Bugger Breakfast with the works.

Burgers started at $11.90 and the menu included things like a Fabulous Hot Chicken Sandwich for $13.90, Fantastic Fish Sandwich for $13.50 and a Frattie Stack for $12.90.

There were also things like Bugger Soup ($8.90), Bugger Toasties ($5.90) and for kids, The Smiler for $4.90.

The cafe itself is on a slight bend in the road, just on the western side of the bridge over the Piako River and at a T-intersection with Buchanan Road. It’s in the old Pipiroa Petrol Station and General Store, which has been updated and includes outdoor seating plus a kids playground. Inside it’s a lot of fun, with pictures, posters and other displays of Bugger Moments; enough to make any visit memorable. On a warm sunny spring day like the one we found it on the Bugger Cafe was a welcoming and intriguing sight. If you're heading along SH25 and see the big red tractor be sure to stop by. It would be a bugger if you didn’t…

Fast Facts What: Bugger Cafe

Click for Google Maps

Where: 1492 SH25 (Cnr Buchanan Rd), Pipiroa. 3597.

When: Open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Why: Just for fun! Oh, and the food, coffee and photo opportunities…

How: On SH25 between Waitakaruru and Kofu, 100 m west of the Piako River bridge

52 Mobile Tech

Camper Mate A

little local knowledge can go a long way and a lot of local knowledge can turn any trip into epic an adventure. CamperMate’s origins involve a 50cc scooter and one man’s solo journey from one end of New Zealand to the other. The rest is a testament to technology and the incredible power of the social global community.

By all reports CamperMate is making quite an impact in the road travel scene, for travellers and locals alike. Users are providing abundant rave reviews, declaring it “Absolutely Essential”, “Invaluable” and “the single best travel app available”. Locals, however, have concerns that it may be helping to ruin New Zealand's unspoilt beauty and letting out more than a few secrets along the way.

The app was developed in 2011 by some quick thinking and socially minded people in preparation for the Rugby World Cup – and the hordes of fans set to descend upon New Zealand. It was designed as a free tool to provide roadtravelling visitors with all the information they would need to locate facilities such as campsites, dump points,

MOBILE TECH 53 Listings

toilets, rubbish bins, potable water and recycle facilities, in an effort to protect the environment and promote responsible camping.

Developers initially worked with Local and Central Governments to collect the founding set of public amenity and facility locations.

Over time the list of GPS locations has grown to encompass other points of interest such as supermarkets, petrol stations, laundries, free Wi-Fi points, police stations, hospitals, ATMs and even current road reports; and then the Crowdsourcing began. Once CamperMate opened its interface to administration-reviewed public submissions it’s fair to say the app exploded to become an all-inclusive ‘exclusive’ club where locations, tips, tricks and valuable travel experiences are shared and traded.

CamperMate still directs users to nearby camping areas and necessary facilities, but it’s also evolved to become an all-in-one travel guide. It can even act as a location sensitive civil defence emergency alert system, providing peace of mind as you travel, so long as you have location enabled and connect to a network.

There are three primary types of campsites listed: private campgrounds and holiday parks, Department of Conservation (DOC)managed public camping, and Freedom Camping areas. DOC run campgrounds are usually on conservation land and in some of the most picturesque locations. These campsites usually don’t have an on-site manager and are operated on a trust payment basis. New Zealand is rightly famous for Freedom Camping, but there have always been concerns regarding its potential negative environmental impact. Freedom camping is permitted on public conservation land, except in areas where it is expressly prohibited or restricted to self-contained vehicles. Areas of restriction are clearly indicated by signage and incorrect camping in a restricted or prohibited area can result in a $200 infringement fee.

In response to allegations the app was incorrectly directing people to freedom camp in such prohibited areas CamperMate developer, Adam Hutchinson created a freedom camping guarantee, whereby if a user is fined due to the information provided, CamperMate will pay the fine.

54 MOBILE TECH Workings

Planning ahead or following your nose, CamperMate combines so many useful In terms of functionality, this app really is world elements. The crowdsourced information is class. Its interface is easy to use and navigate; a little patchy in remote areas, but generally searches can be filtered and displayed in the content is current, correct and useful. In either list or map form, and it’s easy to switch addition to campsites, facilities, amenities between satellite or simple maps. Essential and useful business there are Interesting Tips, information is presented in just the right volume marked with a pink ‘thumbs up’ icon. These and while it offers a range of features including can range from remote waterfalls and secret nearby deals, they are not overcrowded or spots to the best birdwatching reserves, confusing. Maps are available offline and markets, cafés, or things like beaches where these can prove essential when there is limited seals or sea lions gather, plus many other mobile coverage. Its also good to know the points of interest you might otherwise drive apps’ online data use is apparently quite straight past. Similarly, the Activities and conservative.

Attractions purple icons are your own personal guide points detailing tours, museums, Each campsite is colour coded to be initially botanical gardens, community events and local easily distinguishable as a Free, DOC (low cost) businesses. or a Paid Campground. Clicking through on a site brings up further details including vehicle Given New Zealand is so visually amazing and requirements, regulations, a list of facilities, site welcoming it’s no wonder visitors flock here reviews from fellow travellers, links for GPS from all over the world. Hopefully CamperMate directions and contact details and prices per will help keep this beautiful land pristine by person or vehicle, where applicable. Some promoting responsible, and respectful travel. have photos but others don’t, and adding your As they say, “Take nothing but photos, leave own reviews, images or suggesting changes nothing but footprints!” to an entry is as simple as following the in-app submission prompts.

Fast Facts Name: CamperMate Platforms: iOS & Android Devices Size: 102 MB Cost: Free

Header 55

"IF YOU'RE NOT LOST THEN YOU'RE NOT EXPLORING HARD ENOUGH"

56 What’s Header On? 56

What’s On?

North Island

November

Oct 28-Nov 6 – Taranaki: Powerco Taranaki Garden Spectacular. Calling all green thumbs!

New Zealand’s premier spring garden festival offers a mixture of free and paid events, including house and garden tours, celebrity chef demonstrations, guided walks, workshops and a diverse garden speaker series. With an impressive line-up of open gardens including 40 private gardens and 5 public garden spaces, experience the very best of this unique region. The Garden spectacular includes a rich programme of events, including talks by gardening leaders, workshops, tours and free landscaping demonstrations.

5-6 – Oakura: Oakura Arts Trail. Experience a glimpse into the creative womb as local artists open up their studios to the public. Coinciding

with Taranaki’s Garden Festival at the end of October and the first week of November, this is a unique opportunity to enjoy a large variety of local talent. With workshops, demonstrations and exhibitions running all week.

5 – Wellington: Sky Show Fireworks.

Experience a visual and audio spectacular as Wellington's Sky Show illuminates the sky over Wellington Harbour in a massive fireworks display to mark Guy Fawkes Night.

5 – Wellington: NZ Book Festival. New Zealand's biggest celebration of home-grown literature, bringing writers and readers together for a day of fun, food, festivities and fiction.

What’s On? 57 4-13 – Hawke’s Bay: Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Classic. Run for 10 delicious days the Hawke’s Bay Food and Wine Classic includes dozens of stand-out food and wine experiences set in stunning locations throughout Hawke's Bay. F.A.W.C! Summer Series celebrates the onset of summer and all the fresh seasonal goodness it brings.

Showcasing the very best of local talent, produce, wines and musicians this is an atmospheric gastronomical celebration not to be missed!

10-13 – Hamilton: Pacific Rose Bowl Festival.

Coinciding with the Daltons Waikato Rose Society’s Rose Show held in the Hamilton Gardens Pavilion, the Pacific Rose Bowl festival is named after the trophy presented to the winner of the New Zealand Rose of the Year. Winners are selected via a public vote, making this festival one of only two of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

10-20 – Auckland: NZ Sculpture OnShore 2016. NZ Sculpture OnShore is New Zealand's biggest, oldest and most charitable outdoor sculpture exhibition, held at the spectacular Fort Takapuna Historic Reserve on Auckland’s North Shore. It offers a range of events including lunches, twilight and evening sessions showcasing a variety of three dimensional art-forms, including light and sound displays. All funds raised are donated to the NZ Women’s Refuge, a charity dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence.

12 – Tarawera: Tarawera Marathon and 50km Run/Walk. We are the homeland of adventure sports and there is little more adventurous than running or walking through 50 km of the most picturesque countryside available. Starting at Pohutu Geyser in the Whakarewarewa Thermal

Field and finishing at a hot water beach on the shore of Lake Tarawera, you’ll run through forests, past lakes and along trails with views unlike anything you’ve ever seen! This is a truly unique race designed to suit all abilities and is possibly one of the most amazing ways to experience New Zealand.

17-20 – Tauranga: NZ Garden and Art Festival. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this highly successful festival combines the wonder of art and nature. Generously offering over 40 private gardens to explore, works by acclaimed local artists to view and a new entertainment hub featuring displays, exhibitions, concept gardens and a pop-up café, this vibrant and colourful festival has something for everyone.

Horticultural experts will be holding informative and inspirational sessions and artists will have their creative endeavours on display throughout the gardens and at various ‘artstops’.

19 – Auckland: Highwic Christmas Garden Festival. “T'was the night before Christmas and all through Highwic, garlands of dreams are strung for St Nic. The gardens are blooming with glorious fare, bells chime a welcome to all who come here.” Experience a Christmas celebration unlike any other and tour Christmas-themed gardens with live music from a harpist and cellist, plus roving carol singers.

58 What’s On? 20 – Martinborough: Toast Martinborough.

This annual festival in its 25th year offers festival goers the ultimate in sophisticated food, wine and music appreciation. Sample world-class wines, savour delicious cuisine and experience great live entertainment in one of the country’s most picturesque winegrowing villages. Immerse yourself in the finest gastronomical experiences New Zealand has to offer!

26 – New Plymouth: NZ Tattoo & Art Festival. For something a little more modern, Australasia's largest tattoo festival features 250 of the world's top artists. In addition to ink there is a large line-up of live entertainment including bands, BMX and skate demos, fire displays and an international food village.

27 – Wellington: Pipes in the Park. Held in the heart of Wellington City, experience a traditional St. Andrew's Day celebration.

Featuring pipe bands, Highland dancing, markets, Scottish country dancing and much more. A fun day out for the whole family!

December 26 Nov - 4 Dec – Auckland: Puhoi Art Show 2016. Annual major fundraiser for the Puhoi Centennial Hall where you can view or buy works from the area’s talented artists.

Experience a day in Puhoi and soak up the local atmosphere!

3 – Te Puke: Epic Te Puke Float Parade and Food Festival. It’s not just any Christmas float parade, it’s an epic parade followed by multicultural food of similar proportions! Enjoy an atmospheric day of fun, festivities and food in the Bay of Plenty!

3 – Raglan: Music and Dance Festival. Enjoy a free day of traditional music and dance, celebrating, promoting and showcasing the rich culture of the Waikato Region! With market and food stalls onsite and a variety of displays and workshops held throughout the day; celebrate community, culture and creativity!

3 – Paraparaumu: Kapiti Food Fair.

Experience a gastronomical celebration as local producers come together to showcase and celebrate the finest foods and beverages the region has to offer. Also plenty of live entertainment and activities for the whole family.

3 – Auckland: The New Zealand Ukulele Festival. Celebrating its 10th birthday this vibrant festival offers a range of performances, workshops and competitions culminating in a concert by the Kiwileles Massed Ukulele Orchestra, with over 2500 Primary and Intermediate students representing 115 schools from Northland to Christchurch.

4 – Palmerston North: Palmerston North Christmas Parade. Ho Ho Ho, get into the holiday spirit with nonstop activity in the square from early in the morning, culminating in the Christmas Parade. Shop for local produce and crafts from 10 am at the markets, enjoy the entertainment on stage from noon, then line up and watch as hundreds participate in the Palmerston North Christmas Parade at 2 pm!

What’s On? 59 4 – Auckland: Auckland Fair. One of New Zealand's biggest and best design, art and craft markets and a unique shopping experience. Showcasing a curated selection of independent, artisan talent from throughout the country featuring only the best quality, locally handmade products.

9-11 – Wellington: Under the Spinfluence.

Open to all ages and skill levels, Under the Spinfluence is a vibrant and energetic three day community circus Festival. Participate in a wide-variety of circus arts workshops, from aerials to juggling and burlesque, all taught by international and home-grown circus professionals. The festival also includes performances, a market, a party with DJs and live bands, and a Renegade Show where anyone can strut their stuff!

10 – Auckland: Takapuna Beach Christmas Carnival! Experience community Christmas carnival atmosphere, shop local market stalls and indulge in the freshest regional produce and products.

31 – Auckland: WonderGarden. New Zealand’s newest and most exciting New Year’s Eve musical extravaganza. A family friendly event that’s a feast for all the sense; indulge in fine food, music and entertainment!

17 Dec - 7 Jan – Hastings: Fiesta of lights.

A spectacular, community orientated creative light display that needs to be seen to be believed. There are diving penguins, jumping fish, spurting whales and a host of colourful sea creatures amid thousands of dancing fairy lights animated precisely to music.

January 6 – Waihi Beach: Waihi Beach Summer Fair.

Alongside the stunning Waihi Beach, this is a summer fair with festive flair! With 100s of market and food stalls, live entertainment and music there’s something for everyone!

7 – Levin: The Eketahuna Express. Experience the magic of steam travel through some of New Zealand’s most picturesque areas aboard authentically restored vintage steam and Diesel heritage locomotives. Throughout the year STEAM incorporated run regular excursions to assorted locations. Enjoy buffet lunches and spectacular scenery.

7 – Auckland: FitzRoy Family Fun Festival.

Held alongside the Great FitzRoy Mussel Fest it’s a free, no alcohol event with craft and local produce stalls, fun entertainment for children, live music and some food stalls.

7 – Port Fitzroy: Great FitzRoy Mussel Fest.

Enjoy a day of live music, entertainment and great food as the tiny town of Port Fitzroy kicks up its heels and celebrates the bounty of its pristine deep-water harbour. The humble Mussel is honoured for the delectable delicacy it truly is!

13 – Auckland: Jazz and Beanbags. A free open air event held on the strand at Takapuna Beach. As the name suggests it’s a casual relaxed event where you’re encouraged to kick back and relax to some of NZ's finest jazz musicians while chilling on bean bags with friends, craft beverages and funky food trucks!

60 What’s On? 20-22 – Marton: Marton Country Music Festival. Featuring a great local, national and international line-up of musicians and performers, this ‘home-grown’ country music festival in its 9th year is an expanding and evolving event filled with atmosphere! Enjoy a weekend of great music, great food and great people!

22 – Otaki: Festival of Pots and Garden Art 2017. Held within a stunning 10 acre established garden this festival offers a delightful fusion of art, craft and horticulture.

All forms and styles of pottery and ceramics are exhibited for sale, including large sculptural pieces, featuring wood and stone carvings. Various potters and artists, provide demonstrations of their craft, enabling the public to observe the creation of some truly magic forms.

26-29 – Martinborough: Cruise Martinborough. Join in the fun of four days of classic cars, hot rods and retro caravans.

Cruise Martinborough is a classic and muscle car event open to cars and caravans from ‘back in the day’. Entry is free to the public and there’s plenty of entertainment to enjoy including a drive-in-movie, live bands, great food and an afternoon on the drag strip!

South Island

November 12 – Christchurch: New Brighton Spring Music Festival. Held by the beach this family orientated community fun day is a relaxed celebration of good food, good music and good people.

12 – North Otago: Vintage Car Club Swap Meet. The North Otago Vintage Car Club is hosting their annual Swapmeet in conjunction with the Waitaki Heritage Week celebrations.

Experience a treasure-trove of delights for all vintage and veteran car enthusiasts!

16-20 – Oamaru: Waitaki Heritage Week.

Hosted by the Victorian Heritage Celebration Committee; experience an action packed week of yesteryear celebrations. With a programme absolutely filled with events and experiences there’s bound to be something for you. This year’s theme is Medicine in the Victorian era, with the official opening being held on the 17 November.

19 – Ashburton: Rockin Ribs Fest. Think slow cooked ‘smokin’ barbecue ribs prepared by local chefs, local craft beers and plenty of live entertainment. The Rockin Ribs Festival celebrates delicious barbecue, music and good times!

24-27 – Southland: Burt Munro Challenge 2016. One of New Zealand’s major motorsport events. First held in 2006 following the success of the 2005 movie about Burt Munro’s inspirational life - “The World’s Fastest Indian”, the Southland Motorcycle Club created the Burt Munro Challenge to honour Burt,

What’s On? 61 his ingenuity, determination, and love of speed and motorcycles. With a strong local, national and international following, riders from all over the world come to compete in a variety of exciting events. Experience fantastic entertainment and famous southern hospitality. Not to be missed!

December 3 – Cromwell: Cromwell Festival Fete. The Cromwell Festive Fête is an incredible outdoor festive experience combining Christmas shopping with a music festival. Experience a leisurely day out with friends to enjoy wonderful food, local wine and beer, plus world-class entertainment, all while shopping at carefully selected artisan stalls for that perfect gift.

January 28 – Christchurch: The Great Kiwi Beer Festival. What better way to kickstart 2017 than with a celebration of beer? Hosted by industry experts and featuring a range of more than 300 local, national and international brews it’s a celebration of the brewing industry in New Zealand and a toast to the amber ale in all its glory. Sample beers from all over the world, experience live performances, cooking demonstrations, seminars, brand experience areas, beer and food matching classes and much more!

10 – Timaru: V4 and Rotary South Island Champs 2016 - Ultimate Track Day. For the love of everything automotive, Champs features passenger rides, racing sessions, burnout and drifting sessions, drag racing sessions, Grasskhana, dyno, trade sites, entertainment and so much more!

17 – Dunedin: The Beach Market Dunedin - A Very Merry Christmas. Browse, shop, celebrate and enjoy a feast of great local arts, crafts, produce, entertainment and food.

30 – Dunedin: Whare Flat Folk Festival. For the ultimate summer escape, experience four days of sun, music, and entertainment set in the idyllic natural surrounds of Waiora Scout Camp, 15 minutes from Dunedin.

Self-catering, camping festival filled with Workshops, performances, displays and Concerts.

29 – Upper Moutere: Sarau Festival.

Celebrate the diversity and quality of the people and produce from the Moutere region with a relaxed late afternoon festival of live music, colourful entertainment, fantastic food, and traditional country fair fun. Supported by the NZ blackcurrant growing industry, discover the crops, crafts and cookery of the valley!

NEXT ISSUE

CARADO CRUISING!

Next issue Richard reports on the Carado T449 in-depth, having spent eight great days in one wandering from Auckland to Christchurch. This is a real touring test and we bring you first hand insights into what life on the road in a mid-size entry-level European motorhome is really like.

Malcolm will have a pictorial report on the Camper Care Motorhome, Caravan & Leisure Show in Christchurch, which happens November 4-6, but he’s keeping mum on what our second test vehicle will be.

There’ll be more technical, travel and food, plus What’s On and more!

Issue 2 of iMotorhome New Zealand magazine will be out on Saturday 3 December. Until then why not join our more than 32,000 Facebook Friends and followers on Twitter , Pinterest and Instagram to see what we’re up too in the mean time?

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SHOW

CALENDAR Nov 4-6 2016 Camper Care Motorhome, Caravan & Leisure Show Horncastle Arena, Jack Hinton Drive, Addington. Christchurch.

Open 9:00-5:00 daily (4:00 Sunday).

Click for • • •

Parking: Free Adults: $12 Multi-day: $22 Website: Click Here

Google Maps

Mar 17-19 2017 Covi Motorhome, Caravan and Outdoor Supershow ASB Showgrounds Greenlane, Auckland.

Open 9:00-5:00 daily • • • •

Parking: Free Adults: $16 Multi-day: $25 Kids: U16 free Website: Click Here

Click for Google Maps

Sept 2017 Camper Care Motorhome, Caravan & Leisure Show Mystery Creek, Hamilton.

Times: TBA • • • •

Parking: TBA Adults: TBA Multi-day: TBA Kids: TBA Website: Click Here

Click for Google Maps