roadcraft blog

RV & Motorhome Lifestyle - RoadCraft M2 two-berth Fiat Ducato. review

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:07:00 +1200

When we picked up our Roadcraft motorhome it felt like Christmas had arrived early. We had settled on a two-berth Fiat Ducato for a two week road trip; 6.4 metres of camping class. After owning a 1972 Kombi van for 10 years (without all the trappings!) and as we are both super-keen on the camping lifestyle, we were ready to put our hotel-on-wheels to the test. Our first stop was at the Mount Maunganui campground, situated at the base of the Mount. Our site backed on to a stunning view of the beach, and the RoadCraft’s back doors opened all the way out to reveal uninterrupted views.

Excursions were fairly limited for the first three days of our holiday. Wind, combined with end of year fatigue, provided us with the perfect excuse to fully test the interior of the craft. We filled up the water tanks and plugged into the campsite, and really couldn’t find any excuse to leave. When friends visited with their three children in tow, they delighted in opening every cupboard and drawer! And we all easily squeezed around the lounge (which converted into a super comfortable large double bed at night). Forget campervan, we decided that the RoadCraft should be called a glam-per- van! Catering-wise, we ate like we would at home, cooking curries and all manner of stir-fries on the four burner gas cooker. Barbeques, and bacon and eggs were cooked on the non-stick BBQ stowed in the boot.

The fridge did a fine job of keeping our drinks and meat well chilled, and by the time we left the Mount we felt well rested and ready for a family get- together in Taupo. My family are keen camping and RV lifestyle enthusiasts, so the RoadCraft was a real hit! My parent’s van was booted out of its spot, and we were plugged in just a few metres away from the house for the next couple of days.

Then it was on to Motutere, a lakeside spot about 30 minutes south of Taupo that holds many lovely family memories. We spent lots of time camping there as kids, and plan to do so ourselves for years to come. We booked a non- powered site, right on the lakefront, and we were keen to see if the RoadCraft could live up to its exciting promise of being able to go off-road – unplugged – and maintain power for three or four days at a time.

I was nervous for the first 24 hours, especially as the weather had packed in, and hubby brought out the DVDs. The freezer was full of frozen meat, and the fridge stocked with vegies, drinks and treats. I kept my eye peeled on the control panel which keeps you clued up on the vehicle’s water and power consumption, but we barely made a dent in the RoadCraft’s reserves. As a separate battery controls the engine, there was never a danger of not being able to start up when it was time to go. With the flick of a switch there was hot water for a shower or to do the dishes in less than 20 minutes. At the end of every day we really did feel snug – and smug – with a hot chocolate in hand and a DVD playing. (The only thing suffering was my book reading!). The battery life well exceeded our expectations, we were there unassisted for three and a half days. We had used the DVD player and listened to music daily, yet the fridge was still cold the morning we drove away. By this time we knew the RoadCraft pretty well; everything had its place which meant there was no room for any clutter! I loved it!

After a good time at Lake Taupo we headed north. Our family had hired a holiday home in a vineyard just north of Tutukaka and had persuaded the owners to let us park up for a few days. And that’s literally what we did: drive in, park up, and open the fridge.

One of the beauties of the RoadCraft was being able to go for day trips, and we spent many a lazy day parked up next to the beach. We put the awning up for some shade, and my 10 month old nephew slept inside without his Mum worrying about getting him home for a nap. After two weeks on the road we headed back to Auckland, loathe to give the RoadCraft back! It had well served its purpose well, and with style! Unlike our previous 1972 Kombi, the RoadCraft drove like a car, and it was wonderful to not have the constant anxiety you get in a slow camper when you are holding up traffic! Even with its longer length, it was never a burden to park. The only hitch was remembering to push in all the cupboard and drawer buttons before taking off!

I write this from our favourite Hahei camping spot. Now that we’ve sold the Kombi, we now own a three-bedroom tent. Camping life is bliss. However, last night I was most inconvenienced when I had to leave the tent to brush my teeth. Bring back the RoadCraft!.

Trail-liTe purchases Roadcraft

As of March, Trail-lite now owns the RoadCraft brand. As RoadCraft has a loyal and passionate following it will be run as its own brand within the Trail-lite group. “We’ll retain the same focus on design and quality that is central to the RoadCraft brand. Other than a location change, the only other difference is the team behind it. The same master craftsmen who build our market leading Trail-lite motorhomes, will now continue to innovate and improve on the RoadCraft products,” says Trail- lite’s Shaun Newman. RoadCraft was previously owned by John Managh and his sister Mary, who set up RoadCraft to supply vehicles to their campervan rental business, Wilderness Motorhomes. They will continue to operate this business only.

Tech Spec:

Manufacturer: trail-lite
Model: M2 two-berth fiat Ducato

Base vehicle: Fiat Ducato
Engine: 2.3 litre turbo diesel (optional 3.0 litre)
Gearbox: 6 speed manual (optional automatic)
Max power: 88kw @ 3600rpm or 330nm @ 2000rpm
Brakes: ABS with EDB and dual circuit with loading sensor
Tare weight: 2980kg
GVM: 4040kg
External length: 6363mm
External width: 2024mm
Internal height: 1900mm
Hob: 4 burner Spinflow gas cooker and grill
Fridge: 110L Waeco
Gas: 2 x 4.5 kg bottles
Toilet: Dometic toilet
Hot water: Eberspächer 2.2kw diesel heater
Fresh water: 135 litres
Grey water: 135 litres
Price: $139,995 including GST

Manufacturer/Dealer:

Trail-lite
77 Paerata Road, Pukekohe
Phone: 0800 872 455
email: shaun@traillite.co.nz
Web: www.traillite.co.nz

RV & Motorhome Lifestlye - Hi ho silver: RoadCraft L4

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 13:39:00 +1300

At RoadCraft, redefining the future of RV design is as much about getting back to the fundamentals of motorhomes and their Kombi roots as it is preserving the Kiwi lifestyle.

The latest member of their growing family of OCV's (Overland Camping Vehicles,) the BaseJumper L4 not only references the early days of campervanning, it employs the latest VW Crafter technology for a ride you can take the whole clan on.

The family focused four-berth, slid into the Continental Cars showroom in Auckland on the 19^th August 2009, on a cloud of dry ice and blue light in a double celebration, where a new champion of the company's go-for-it-attitude, tri-athlete, Hamish Carter, was announced as Roadcraft's brand-ambassador.

Built on the sleek 6.9m Crafter van with the reliability and cruising capabilities of a 2.5 litre, 5 cylinder common rail Turbo Diesel Injected engine, the L4 is pitched at adventurous kin who like to go wild and stay clear of the road for extended periods.

With the inclusion of a drivers-side rear passenger seat, the L4 allows the troop to travel together at the front of the vehicle. The visibility is great with a large side window on the right, while those along for the ride on the left get a centre stage windscreen view. If the scenery is not enough then there is a DVD player and seven-inch screen above the rear vision mirror. The front swivel seats complete the scene for a kind of mini lounge for the kids, while mum and dad can rest up on the ample wrap round lounge.

Perhaps the key design feature in the new maximized layout is the gas shock assisted, drop down forward bunk that stows as a false ceiling behind the cab. A bottom bunk is created beneath where hydraulic pullouts-for width and length- lift from the side of the passenger seat.

It's just one of the ways RoadCraft are changing the way people embrace the world of motorhomes. As Hamish Carter says, I wouldn't call it a campervan, it's more a tool." It's a mobile base from which a tribe can launch all manner of outdoor pursuits.

The L4 comes complete with chef-quality knives and utensils and top of the line leisure appliances including the Spinflo four-burner gas stove with grill and Dometic rangehood. A Truma hotwater heater runs off both mains power at the campground or gas out amongst nature, has a 14L capacity and goes from 0 to 100 Cº within half an hour.

The slick 110L Waeco fridge with separate freezer is engineered to run while on angles up to 30º and over rough corrugated tracks without compromising its efficiency.

Base Jumper L4s have a four year/200,000 kilometres full-vehicle warranty and 24 hour assistance for 3 years. There is a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty on the platinum silver paintwork, which with its trademark topo-graphic decal is a guaranteed head turner.

Words/photos Jason Burgess

AA Directions - RoadCraft Base Jumper L4 2009 review

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 09:29:00 +1300

New Zealand must surely be a world leader in the number of motorhomes per capita. Throughout the summer months and in ski season they can be seen throughout the land, on our roads and at our tourist destinations.

Many are huge, cumbersome rigs, comfortable and spacious inside, but try getting to a remote beach down a long, narrow, twisty gravel road off the beaten track and you might be wishing you had stayed at home.

Thanks to the team at Roadcraft, "spacious and comfortable" doesn't have to be "huge and cumbersome."

Built by Kiwis for Kiwis, Roadcraft's new Base Jumper L4 is aimed at the active, outdoor adventure-loving family wanting to get to our most remote destinations.

Roadcraft claims to have invented a new segment with the Base Jumper L4, the OCV, or Overland Camping Vehicle. Their aim, they say is to provide Kiwis with a new means of making the most of what it is to be a Kiwi - out there and getting into it.

John Managh and his sister Mary Hamilton have outdoor adventure running through their veins. Having grown up in a family that was into exploring, fishing, diving, sailing and anything involving the outdoors, it is only natural for them to be in this business.

So their OCV concept is a reflection of themselves. From the moment you arrive at their premises near Auckland Airport, you get the feeling this is an outfit that does things a little bit differently from the rest; friendly, welcoming, relaxed and passionate about what they do.

They'll make sure that your adventure in the great outdoors is an enjoyable experience.

From providing CD's and DVD's from their large audio/video library to recommending adventures at your destination, such as sea kayaking at Cathedral Cove or guided bush walks in the Coromandel Ranges, nothing's too much trouble.

Based on the new 6.9 metre Volkswagen Crafter, the Base Jumper L4 is powered by an 85kW turbo diesel engine mated to a 6 speed manual gearbox.

The Crafter's safety package includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) teamed with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) and traction control.

The guys and girls at Roadcraft tell us that future models will be fitted with a more powerful 100kW engine, however we didn't find our test vehicle short on power even on the steep and twisty roads around the Coromandel Peninsular.

The layout of the Base Jumper L4 has been designed with practicality and comfort in mind, with a clever use of available space.

The lounge/dining area at the rear is made up of a U shaped seating arrangement, with a table that stows away neatly under the floor.

Thanks to ingenious sliding mechanisms, the seats easily convert into a comfortable King size double berth, or can be used as two good sized singles. And for the kids, two cleverly thought out single berths are provided at the front that stow away neatly into the roof with the aid of gas stays.

With the family in mind, forward facing seating is provided immediately behind the driver's seat, allowing for all passengers to see the road ahead and converse while on the move.

Behind the second row of seats is the fully equipped bathroom with hot and cold running water available from the 140 litre fresh water tank. Water pressure from the nice hot shower is as good as that in any hotel.

Rearward of the bathroom, a good sized storage cupboard is located above a 110 litre Waeco fridge/freezer, with the main galley being located opposite.

There's plenty of kitchen bench space between a glass top 4 burner gas hob and grille and the sink with hot and cold running water.

Entertainment is provided in the form of a Majestic home theatre system with a 15 inch LCD screen TV/DVD/MP3/MP4 player and radio with iPod auxiliary input. An efficient Eberspacher 2.2kW diesel heater keeps the interior cosy in cold climates.

Available for hire through the rental arm of the company, Wilderness Motorhomes or for sale direct from Roadcraft's

manufacturing facility for $149,000, the Base Jumper L4 provides accommodation for a family of four with all the mod-cons of a luxury hotel even if you choose to go bush.

ENDS

www.aa.co.nz

Review by Andrew Bayliss

RV & Motorhome Lifestyle - Unplugged

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 13:57:00 +1300

"Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." Leonardo Da Vinci

With an emphasis on design and functionality the Base Jumper not only bridges the generational gap between 20-something's travelling in a Kombi and active 'Red Wing' clubbers living in something more substantial, it puts the cool back into campervans.

This is no ordinary RV or Overland Camping Vehicles (OCV) -as manufacturers Roadcraft, like to call them. For starters the panel work is adorned with now you see it, now you don't topographical map, offering a subtle but personalised preference of the drivers favourite destinations.

Inside the Base Jumper conjures sleek apartment-like luxury, yet it's rugged enough to get off the bitumen and stay unplugged for days at a time.

According to head honcho John Managh, "Modern architecture is where we take our inspiration." Minimal intrusions and efficient use of space, include a flip up floor cabinet for 12V vacuum, a step-up lounge area provides for bed slats, table and pole storage plus extra room for all the toys in the beneath seat compartments.

A compact wardrobe sits among the slimline cupboards including six smaller overhead units in the lounge area. Everything below the waist is a drawer and in the kitchen the efficiency extends through the crockery and utensil pullouts where inventive wood cut outs create secure stacking systems devised for ease of use and maximum use of space. The fridge is positioned ergonomically correct around thigh height off the floor.

The long life energy system features a 600w 12V inverter and two 220A/H 6V batteries, which along with the diesel heater are integral components of the all-season free camp build. The diesel heater vents into the bathroom transforming it into a drying room and every OCV also comes with snow-chains. In summer the optional solar panel system, will power up almost indefinitely, without having to turn the wheels.

There are two 4.5 litre gas bottles under the sink: one for the four-hob gas cooker and grill (with internal access to the valves) and the other for the barbeque niftily stored in an inbuilt slot beneath the rear window seat.

The well-dressed wraparound lounge, with wall mounted DVD, I-pod and TV offers chic quarters. The back doors slide open around both sides of the vehicle for an unobstructed view and gaping access to the storage areas below. The indoor-outdoor flow continues with the extra-wide sliding side door supplying access beyond the electronic step, across the galley counter.

The Popala Pine finish and thermo flex lining provide visual and physical warmth. Privacy curtains Velcro across the windscreen if using the cab's swivel seats plus there is an inner curtain behind the seats for zoning off the cab.

The bathroom features a Thetford swivel seat toilet, a combination of a Cobra slide-rail shower and on demand hot water system.

The Base Jumper rides on the car-like drive of a Fiat Ducato 2.3 litre diesel turbo and all come with self-containment certification.

Currently there are two sizes; the S2 is configured for two people who are comfortable sleeping next to one another in a Queen size bed. The slightly longer Base Jumper L2T (6.3m) allows for optional sleeping configurations including two singles, double or king size. A four berth Base Jumper is the pipeline.

The Roadcraft philospophy encourages collaborative-custom fit outs. "We need to understand the customers unique requirements before we start pushing ideas to them," says Roadcraft Marketing Leader Gray Borrell. They have built for mountain bikers Kashi Leuchs and Marcus Roy who top a growing list of multi-sport athletes, coast to coasters and outrigger rowers.

Signing up for a Base Jumper may not guarantee you a positive attitude but it's safe to say it was conceived with pioneering zeal by a team whose key words, adventure, outdoors and pushing boundaries not only describe their playtime passions, they are brand imperatives.

Words/photos - Jason Burgess

NZ Motorhomes Caravans and Destinations - RoadCraft Base Jumper L4 review

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:54:00 +1300

RoadCraft's existing Base Jumper motorhomes - its S2 and M2 - are firmly established as get-in-and-go platforms for thrill-seeking couples. They're designed for independence, allowing you to spend days at a time "going bush" rather than overnighting at the nearest campsite.

The L4 takes this concept a little further: going bush as a family.

Launched in August, the L4 is designed around a couple with two children, and it sleeps four in comfort. At nearly 7m long it's quite an imposing proposition, but it's sleek and aerodynamically sculpted. Weighing in at around 3880kg, it's also well within standard driver's licence parameters. It's also a pleasure to drive - more about this in a minute.

The model we drove is the prototype, but the vehicle was a hit before it was even built, with three being ordered from the plans. Due to this demand, the company has quickly ratcheted up production, aiming to deliver 20 L4s to its rental arm (Wilderness) over the next year. The first of these became available at the beginning of this month.

German Engineering

Volkswagen's Crafter 35 van, one of Europe's most popular commercial vehicles, is the starting point for the L4, and it's characterised by solid precision bodywork, refreshingly free of rattles. A 2.5-litre, five-cylinder common rail Turbo Diesel Injected (TDI) engine nestles under the hood. As always with RoadCraft, there are plenty of options and extras - even with the engine.

This model was fitted with an 85kW engine. The company says future L4s will probably be equipped with a 100kW alternative, and there is also a 120kW version for those who enjoy larger reserves of power. All are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, though an automatic version is also available.

For my part, I wouldn't be too fussed about up-scaling. The vehicle performs perfectly well with the 85kW unit, although admittedly I didn't take it up any remote tracks, and we didn't have a full load on board. Still, there's plenty of torque, and cruising at 100km/h in sixth gear, the engine's turning over at sedate 2500rpm. Very quiet it is too - and fuel consumption equates to around 12.5 km/litre. All engines meet the Euro 4 emission standard.

Cab

The original VW Crafter was a joint design project between VW and Mercedes Benz - the latter being responsible for driver ergonomics and cab layout. Let's just say you won't be pressed for space. All controls fall easily to hand, and the visibility is excellent.

I liked the large "split" side mirrors - they eliminate blind spots and provide uncompromised rear views. Just as well - the vista from the cab's rear view mirror is a little tight (you have to peer past the bathroom structure). The standard vehicle isn't equipped with a GPS unit, but it would be easy to fit one, and while you're about it, to couple it to a rear view camera.

Features include cruise control (very useful, as you'll find the L4 galloping to 120km/h without realising it), a fully-adjustable driver's seat, adjustable steering column, air conditioning and stereo/radio player. There's also a DVD player mounted on the ceiling - perfectly positioned for the children seated in the bench seat immediately behind the driver. There are also two line-out jacks at the bench seat - so the adults will not have to suffer through repeated Bambi soundtracks.

Both the cab seats swivel 180^o, so in relax mode the L4's interior becomes a very friendly, intimate space.

Safety

Despite its size, driving the L4 is easy. Power steering and the muted engine belie the apparent bulk, and in case you're lulled into inattentiveness, the Crafter's equipped with a high-tech braking package.

It comprises 300mm discs up front (298mm at the rear) with two callipers per wheel. Even better, the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) teams up with Electronic Brake-Pressure Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) and traction control to ensure optimal driving safety. EBD, for the uninitiated, disperses the braking force to where it's most required - between the front and rear axles. A great help when negotiating awkward, rough-terrain country.

Bed time

RoadCraft has used the Crafter's roomy interior to maximum benefit - and it's particularly evident in the sleeping arrangement. The rear wrap-around couch (the parents' area) becomes an expansive double bed (1770 x 1900mm), and if things between you and the wife are a little frosty, it can also be configured as two singles (800 x 1900mm). The best part of the bed, however, is that it's deployed with a flick of a switch - using an electrical release mechanism.

Up front, the children sleep in two bunk beds configured sideways, across the width of the vehicle (750 x 1770mm each). The lower bunk is formed from the bench seat, while the upper folds down - on pneumatic rams - from the ceiling; a particularly clever piece of design technology.

Galley

Plenty of goodies here to test your culinary skills - with lots of lockers and bench top space. Solid macrocarpa is used for the bench top, and while it looks great, I hope its warm tones aren't too easily spoiled by careless chefs.

Most of the action takes place on a four-burner Spinflo gas stove with grill (fed by two 4.5kg gas bottles) under a Dometic rangehood, with wash-up in a generous stainless steel sink. Hot water's (14-litre capacity) supplied by either the Truma diesel heater or mains power.

A 110-litre Waeco fridge (with separate freezer compartment) is on the opposite side, conveniently mounted at chest height. It's a fridge that perfectly complements the L4's adventure ethos - it doesn't have to be level to perform. The compressor will run even when you're on a 30^o angle, or testing your dentures over corrugated tracks.

For me, though, the galley's piecè de résistance is its tools - top-quality pots and pans, and surgical-grade knives.

Bathroom

Again - it's spacious by motorhome standards, and features a Dometic cassette toilet (nine-litres), shower and basin. The swivel seat toilet swings out of the way when not in use, and if your day's adventures have resulted in wet clothing, the bathroom doubles as a drying room.

That Truma heater, incidentally, is a Combi model - providing heating for the vehicle and the drying room, as well as the hot water for the galley and bathroom. Grey water collects in a 135-litre tank and all RoadCraft vehicles have self containment certification.

Designed as an all-country, all-weather adventurer, staying toasty in icy climates is easily achieved thanks to the L4's insulation and heater. Insulation uses SL2 grade polystyrene in the roof, and polyester "Green Stuff" batts in the sides and behind the cabinet walls. Coupled with carpeting on the floors, thermoflex on the walls and vinyl headlining on the ceiling, you won't be chilly, especially once the heater kicks in.

Entertainment

While the children's "are-we-there-yet" boredom will be tempered by the cab-mounted DVD player, at night the family can switch to the main 15" Majestic LCD screen mounted in the lounge. You can also use it to view the day's photos. If you prefer to listen to music (four-channel surround sound), you have a choice of CD, MP3, MP4 or the radio. If none of these is ideal, hook your iPod into the auxiliary input.

Electronic equipment, of course, demands decent power, and the L4 is fitted with twin batteries - one for the engine, and the other for the house. The latter (220 amp-hours) comprises two six-volt, deep-cycle batteries connected in series. If you're desperate to hook up with far-flung family and friends by email, the vehicle's also fitted with a 600-watt inverter - providing 240 volts AC for your lap-top.

As might be expected with its engineering heritage, the Crafter comes with a four-year or 200,000km (whichever comes first) full-vehicle warranty. That's complemented by Volkwagens's Roadside Assistance programme (24-hour help for three years), plus a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty and three-year paint defect guarantee.

Accessories

A good selection of outdoor accessories are supplied with the vehicle. It includes Oztent fold-up table and chairs, and a gas-fired barbeque and an outside shower. Optional extras range from a customised awning (over the main entrance), to a satellite dish, solar panels and a roof rack.

In fact, buyers have plenty of scope to customise the L4, tweaking interior layout and fittings to their preferences. That also extends to the signature "contour" graphics that adorn each of RoadCraft's motorhomes. Fancy a bit of Coromandel on your home? Bay of Islands? Tongariro?

All up, the Base Jumper L4 is a solid addition to the RoadCraft stable - easy to use, easy to drive, comfortable, and well-finished. It might not find favour with dedicated couples, but for those keen on adventuring as a family, it's a perfect fit.

ENDS

www.motorhomesandcaravans.co.nz

ASB Business - RoadCraft

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:00:00 +1300

The recent result of Tourism Holdings Limited showed a drop off in the premium end of the camper van market. But RoadCraft, which builds high end vans, and sister company Wilderness, which rents them out, have bucked that trend. Click here to view the video.

RoadCraft manufacture and distribute NZ made Overland Camping Vehicles (OCV’s) to the domestic leisure market. Outdoor junkies choose RoadCraft – people who are serious about getting out there and doing it. They want the best – the drive, the gear, the place. The RoadCraft Base Jumper offers a revolution in design and functionality.

Getting in the zone has never been this exhilarating – until RoadCraft.

NZ Motorhomes Caravans and Destinations - Law's Great Challenge

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:56:00 +1200

Auckland manufacturer RoadCraft is supporting the Mizone Seven in Seven Challenge, which is a world-first attempt to run New Zealand's seven 'Great walks' in seven consecutive days. The challenge, the brain child of Malcolm Law, aims to raise $50,000 for the Leukaemia & Blood Foundation of NZ. Because he lost his brother to leukaemia at the age of 13, Malcolm has supported the foundation through and through. His determination to raise awareness has inspired him to take a year off work and fully dedicate himself to the challenge.

RoadCraft will back Mal and his support team every step of the way by providing a fleet of Base Jumpers for the journey. The Overland Camping Vehicles (OCVs) designed and manufactured by RoadCraft are built for the adventurous at heart. They are therefore the right fit to get Mal through some of New Zealand's most remote and demanding landscapes.

"The challenge is a huge undertaking and a superb way to raise awareness and support for a worthy cause," says Gray Borrell of RoadCraft. "Our company is no stranger to pushing boundaries and Mal's commitment to the cause is inspirational. The thought of running the equivalent of nine off-road marathons and climbing Mt Cook twice, all within seven days is daunting. But with the support of RoadCraft and others he is determined to get there.

"Finishing it will be one thing," says Mal "but I'll only count it as a total success if I can raise the $50,000."

RoadCraft encourages everyone to get behind the Seven in Seven Challenge. You can help by sponsoring Mal and becoming a 'Friend of the Challenge'. You'll also be entered into monthly prize draws to win some great prizes, including a weekend getaway in a RoadCraft Base Jumper.

For more information contact Gray Borrell, marketing leader RoadCraft, ph 021 271 5300 or visit www.7in7.org.nz or www.roadcraft.co.nz

ENDS

www.motorhomesandcaravans.co.nz

AutoCar - The Forgotten Coast

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 09:51:00 +1200

Between Auckland and New Plymouth lies a forgotten stretch of coast notable for its wild beaches and spectacular landforms. We discover that a RoadCraft Base Jumper S2 campervan is the perfect mobile hotel for its exploration

Most Kiwis only get to admire the wild west coast beaches between Taranaki and Auckland from the artificial climate of a Boeing 737 cabin on flights between our largest city and Wellington. The region is notable for three things: a tortuous topography that has made its civilisation difficult, a profound absence of visitors due to a lack of tourist facilities, and its place in early Maori history.

As a boy, I was taught that seven canoes formed a 'great fleet' that brought the resilient race to these shores sometime around 1350. It now appears more likely that some forty-odd double-hulled catamarans travelled independently of each other, driven to migration by violent upheavals in the East Polynesian homeland of Hawaiki (probably the Cooks and Society Islands). And while the debate about the logistics of Maori migration continues, it appears that at least six of these canoes landed on the wave-swept shores of the wild, black-sand beaches between Ngamotu (New Plymouth) and Tamaki (Auckland).

Using a four-wheeled canoe of our own, a RoadCraft Base Jumper S2 campervan, we traced some of the steps that forged a nation. But unlike the ancestors of the local iwi, we encountered no hardship on our trip, so well equipped was the shelter of our mobile whare.

Leaving Auckland on Good Friday, we joined a population on the move, but the traffic thinned progressively as we descended the Bombay Hills. About sixty per cent of the holiday-seekers turned towards Coromandel and SH2, and when we jumped off SH1 at Rangiriri, it was like someone had suddenly cleared the roads with an intercontinental missile.

On bumpy back-roads, the Base Jumper's interior began to emit a small symphony of rattles and hums that increased in volume as the road surface deteriorated. Though never loud enough to be annoying or interfere with conversation, it did serve to remind that we were in a campervan.

It's easy to forget this when at the wheel of a Fiat Ducato. The 2.8 litre common-rail turbo diesel might only make 94kW of peak power, but the 300Nm of torque it generates motivates 2.5 tonnes of fully equipped camper with ease. A tight turning circle and a soft ride also contributed to the Ducato's car-like driving persona. By Pirongia, my pillion-in-a-million was dozing contentedly as the kilometres zipped by beneath the RoadCraft's wheels. It took the twists and turns of the hilly road approaching Kawhia to bring her back to the present again.

After a refreshing walk on the ocean beach west of the town and a paddle in the hot springs that bubble to the surface of its black sands, it was a quick trip north to the mouth of the Aotea Harbour to set up camp for the night. Not that there was much to do, other than parking the Base Jumper on the level, and applying the handbrake. Best to check whether this was an appropriate spot. At the end of the road was a marked-off area with a 'no camping' sign. Could this have been the resting place of the Aotea canoe, I wondered? A quick chat with some locals confirmed that we could park our own 'canoe' beside the area without causing cultural offence.

Our site had a view of the estuary, and we watched the sun retreat into the Tasman as we ate dinner in our camp chairs. Next morning, as the tide rushed in to cover the many sandbanks, two stray dogs were left with no option but to swim for it. Despite the swift currents, they made it back to the village.

We decamped to tour Kawhia Harbour, and found that a popular Saturday pastime on a favourable tide is to fish for kahawai from the bridges that cross its many arms. Not that we had time for more than a quick hello, for the border of Waitomo district is full of natural wonders, most of them ignored by the tourist hordes that visit the famous glow-worm caves.

The high rainfall acts as master carver of this limestone landscape, and our first port of call was the 'natural bridge' at Mangapohue, 26km west of the well patronised caves. This double limestone archway is the natural equivalent of a Max Escher stairway, and all the more amazing for its dimensions. If visiting, do walk a little further than just the arches, as beyond lie rocks where you can see fossilised oysters 35 million years old. It's a unique experience to encounter something so instantly recognisable yet that dates from the dawn of life.

Piripiri Cave is just another 4km down the road from Mangapohue, and offers a look into the maze-like bowels of the Earth's crust. Passages stretch in every direction. Expect no glow-worms, but a close encounter with humungous cave wetas is a possibility.

Two kilometres further west lies the track to Marokopa Falls, a great place to wash off any muddy residue after exploring the cave. The 30m plunge of the Marokopa River produces a spectacular amount of fine spray, and if the sun is in a playful mood, you may find yourself enclosed in a personal rainbow.

From the falls, the road follows the river towards the sleepy little fishing village that bears the same name. In the recent past, reaching Marokopa involved lots of gravel road, but the seal now extends past the town almost to the next beach - Kiritehere. From here the Base Jumper took a 24km stretch of gravel to Waikawau Beach in its stride.

Here, the side road to the coast ends abruptly by a steep hillside, but a narrow tunnel allows access to a spectacular beach by foot. Evidently, three blokes carved it out with picks and shovels in 1911, so wool and sheep could be loaded on boats from the sands. In doing so they opened up one of the best rock fishing spots in the North Island. If visiting without the luxury of a shower-equipped campervan, Waikawau is happy to provide one, albeit with cold water, in the form of a waterfall.

Next day we motored back to the refinements of the State Highway system, joining the main road to New Plymouth at Awakino. The rattles and hums of the Ducato's interior immediately quietened on smoother road surfaces, and SH3 quickly led us to the Mohakatino and Tongaporutu Rivers, respective landing places of the Tahatuna and Tokomaru canoes.

Unfortunately, we were there at full tide, so exploring their eroded sandstone cliffs and wave-carved caves will have to wait for another day. Instead, we wandered the Whitecliffs walkway, catching the occasional glimpse from the cliff-tops of the sandstone pillars that form the 'Three Sisters'. The fact that the 'three' are now 'two' highlights the unstable nature of this area, and warnings not to venture too close to the edge are worth heeding. Scott Cook's book (see sidebar) notes places where you can feel the earth shake with the force of each wave hitting the coast - not an experience recommended for the faint of heart.

Finally, it was on to New Plymouth, where the Kahutara, Taikoria and Okori canoes came ashore. Here, among the roller-bladers and families enjoying the city's popular coastal walkway, it was possible that Easter Sunday to imagine some of the relief those Polynesian explorers must have felt at reaching such a favourable and fair land.

Base-Jumping Without Leaving the Ground

The Base Jumper S2 is RoadCraft's first attempt at a campervan completely designed for New Zealand conditions, including our often rough back-road network and sometimes inclement climate.

It's also tailored to our liking for carting a few toys along with the luggage. The company has followed the S2 with larger versions that can accommodate more travellers, including a new Volkswagen Crafter-based camper that is now the largest model.

As a travelling couple, we felt quite at home with the S2, but the limiting factor of the original and most affordable RoadCraft is immediately apparent to those looking at the sleeping arrangements: a queen-sized bed. Close relations with your travelling companion are a prerequisite.

That said, extra sleeping space is the only thing that the BJ S2 is short of. Built within the confines of a Fiat Ducato Maxi van body, this camper is nothing short of a compact yet luxurious mobile hotel room on wheels. The bed rates as one of the most comfortable we've experienced in a campervan, and the attention to detail is superb. Nice touches include the solid macrocarpa sink bench, the robust nature of the gravel-road-friendly joinery, and the quality of the cutlery, kitchen implements and china. This is a campervan that those used to a luxurious lifestyle can rent/own/use without feeling they are ever roughing it.

That luxury extends to a toilet/shower cubicle with hot and cold running water. With a 90-litre water tank, a similarly sized grey-water receptor, a deep-cycle inverter, two LPG bottles to supply energy and an easily serviced toilet cassette, the Base Jumper can settle down for several fully independent days. Its batteries will start to run out of charge only after about five days of parked-up camping. In any extended touring scenario, there is no need to visit a power site to recharge (although motor-

camp laundry facilities may seem attractive every now and then).

Meanwhile, even a fuel-head like me appreciates the increased environmental responsibility allowed by the S2; having enjoyed a night somewhere wild, it's a good feeling to drive off the next day, secure in the knowledge all your waste and rubbish is conveniently catered for by your mode of travel. We left only our footprints and the Fiat's tyre tracks at the places we visited.

That smugness is all the more encouraged by the indulgences the S2 supplies. The entertainment system includes TV, DVD player and a fine-sounding audio system with iPod/MP3 connectivity. Enduring a dark, starless night with a tent-flattening wind howling in the trees was no challenge at all, tucked as we were in the S2's warm bed, with Jools Holland and his mates performing their musical magic on the DVD. Two road-weary travellers genuinely felt like they were cocooned in a five-star hotel at that moment.

Unique, custom-made roof racks can be ordered as an option. Ours would carry a pair of mountain bikes and a two-person kayak, toys we left at home on this journey for fear of restricting the overhead clearance when driving in the bush.

Up front, you're aware you've somehow downgraded from a luxury vehicle into a rather ordinary light commercial. Where the Kiwi-made and -installed camper fit-out withstood the pummelling of gravel roads pretty agreeably, the Ducato cab didn't seem to fare so well. In terms of its equipment, the Fiat is fleet-special basic. The cab's audio system is a Blaupunkt unit of 20^th Century vintage, and the lack of drink-holders is also questionable. On the plus side, there is a large, lockable cubby on the centre console, and door bins spacious enough to carry a map for every country on the globe.

If the Fiat is basic in its cab furnishing, the powertrain is brilliant. The 2.8 litre turbodiesel hauled the Base Jumper up hills with ease, allied to a snickable six-speed manual. The top gear of the six-speed was a real fuel-saver on the highway. We averaged less than 10L/100km over our 1200km journey, despite cruising at well above the mean highway speed when the traffic allowed.

If you're keen on having one in your driveway, RoadCraft's wilderness-ready campers start at around $130K. That's great value given the quality of the product. There's another option, however: Wilderness Motorhomes has an extensive fleet for hire. Although rates during peak times can be as high as $310 per day, winter sees this dropping to just $110, and the four-layer insulation of the camper body and inbuilt diesel-fired central heating makes travelling in a cold climate no hardship.

ENDS

Words/photos Paul Owen

New Zealand Herald – Road trip: Free-range foray

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 16:47:00 +1300

We're riding high. So high, in fact, that as we swing out on to the Southern Motorway the driver of a passing lorry gives us a knowing wave.

Our Roadcraft Basejumper van puts us on a level with the big boys and as the road opens out in front of us, we are filled with the anticipation that only a road trip can bring. We have a map, yes. We have a fridge stocked with good wine and food. We have all the luxuries of a designer apartment on wheels. Plans? No. But that is the point of this kind of holiday.

"It's all about getting off the beaten track," enthused Gray Borrell from Roadcraft before we left. "In fact, if you don't, you shouldn't be driving one of these.

"We call them Overland Camping Vehicles [OCVs] because they're designed for those who like freedom, getting out in the wilderness, and away from normality and conformity."

All we know is that we have four uncharted days ahead of us. We're heading to the Coromandel - the perfect place for a long weekend within easy reach of the city - and the world's our ... scallop.

Roadcraft has organised our first night's "Wildspot" location - the bottom of Rita Stephenson's garden in Coromandel township. It doesn't sound that wild. But as we squeeze our home around the corner of her old villa and bump across a lawn the size of a paddock, we find ourselves in a secluded corner surrounded by native trees and a crystal-clear river.

Our neighbours? A family of giant black eels lolling in the water that gulp the bread we throw to them. We lie in the afternoon sun and embrace the soothing sounds of slow-flowing river, amazed that just a few hours ago we were in busy downtown Auckland.

Tempted as we are to stay put, we wander into town and find ourselves caught up in the Monteith's Café Crawl, part of the annual Pohutakawa Festival. There are cocktails at the Star and Garter pub before everyone jumps on a bus and heads out to the Coromandel Oyster Company.

We'd passed this on our way into town, so imagine our joy on finding a smorgasbord of succulent oysters ripe for the eating. Grown in beds in the harbour in front of us, they don't come fresher than this. We try not to look greedy as we head up for our third helping.

The noise on the bus amplifies as wine lubricates the enthusiasm of the group - a healthy mix of locals and tourists - as we head back into town to the Peppertree Restaurant for delicious duck and fresh fish.

The next morning, following the advice of new friends made the night before, we head further up the coast. Our first stop: the incredible and somewhat surreal world of Barry Brickell's Driving Creek Railway and Pottery.

Back in 1961, Brickell bought a hillside of scrubland aiming to create an artists' collective. Today it is a thriving pottery. When we visit there are two artists in residence, the scrub has been returned to native forest, and attractions include a wildlife sanctuary and a sculpture park. But the piece de resistance is the narrow-gauge train track which winds its way through 60ha - over viaducts, through tunnels, all the way to the Eyefull Tower - where you can take in the stupendous views of the region.

From here, and with time on our side, we call into the nearby Driving Creek Organic Cafe, with its faded Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and sit on the balcony sipping smoothies.

Back on the road, we head through Colville, turn on to the metal road and rumble with ease out to Waikawau Bay and Little Bay. Here a handful of baches are mostly closed up for the weekend and we have the white-sand beach to ourselves. There are no shops here, so thank goodness for our meals on wheels.

After a late lunch, we head to the south of the beach and, after a 20-minute climb up a bush track, we find ourselves on the headland, where we flop into the long grass and watch the clouds float by.

The plan was to stay the night up here ... but when you're free-wheeling, plans are made to be broken. We decide to head back towards Coromandel township so we don't waste any precious daylight the next day driving. An impossibly beautiful sunset proves hard to resist and we pull over on to a grassy verge just metres from the high-tide line to watch it slowly sink behind the hills.

As we discuss the pros and cons of potential locations, a tui flies in to watch us from a nearby flax bush. "Perhaps we should just stay here?" we both say at the same time. Within minutes the rug is out on the grass, the deck chairs up and a gourmet feast is pulled from the fridge (kaimoana from The Coromandel Smoking Co, organic produce bought at the local farmers' market). Perfect.

As night sets in we snuggle into our beds and watch a DVD on the TV screen above the beds. Worn out by a day of swimming, walking, eating and exploring, we fall asleep well before the movie finishes.

The next morning we're up and ready to go. We stop for fresh coffees and then head up over the hills to Whangapoua Beach. A quick stop for breakfast supplies at the local store is waylaid as we get the giggles trying on oversized straw hats.

Our mission today is to explore New Chums Bay, a 30-minute walk from the end of Whangapoa beach, and hats are a must even if they're not going to score us any points in the style stakes. After a breakfast of fresh fruit, yoghurt and muesli, we pack towels, sunblock and more supplies from the fridge and head off. New Chums has been described as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world, and after scrambling across rocks and a long the dirt track that leads past beautiful nikaus and bush, we understand why.

All further plans for exploring are put on hold as we nestle under the twisted roots of a pohutakawa and spend the day sunbathing and swimming. "Um, are we living the dream?" "Mmmmmmmmmmm," is the sleepy reply.

The only thing that gets us moving is rumbling tums. We are soon back behind the wheel and meandering our way towards Hahei. We have a date first thing in the morning with the guys at Cathedral Cove Kayaks, and by parking up right by the beach we'll be fresh and ready for action.

We pull up alongside some British backpackers who are pulling all their belongings out of their banged-up station wagon to find their picnic table, chairs and bed (there's a bed in there?). We've been there and done that - the budget road trip where you spend half your time pitching tents, scrabbling through your gear and walking miles to find water.

A wave of smugness washes over us as we slide back the OCV's doors, grab a bottle of chilled wine from the fridge and settle in to watch the last of the day's sunlight play on the water.

Tonight we cheat and get fish and chips from the local store. Our van's back doors swing right back and we feel like we're in a penthouse waterfront apartment with multimillion-dollar views. The stars sparkle in the clear sky and we are lulled to sleep by the sound of breaking waves.

We're woken by a spectacular sunrise, have a pre-breakfast swim, and then stumble along the beach to meet Mike and the crew for our sea kayaking adventure.

The morning is spent paddling through gentle swells around the nearby islands, hearing about the history of the area and the wildlife that lives in the marine reserve, navigating through a sea cave and trying not to capsize as we surf into Cathedral Cove, where our guide puts on the primus and whips up great-tasting cappuccinos for everyone along with tasty home-cooked biscuits. Delicious.

By the time we get back to base, it's lunchtime and we while away a few hours on the beach, reluctant to start the return journey to Auckland. But you can't put off the inevitable.

A keen fisherman friend has requested I bring back macadamia nut sprinkles from Cathedral Cove Macadamias, which transform fresh fish into a crunchy delight, so we follow the signposts to the picturesque farm.

Roadside stalls selling fresh produce prove pleasant distractions as we work to delay leaving the Coromandel. As does the superb Moko Art Gallery at Hot Water Beach - where we blow the budget on a beautiful garden sculpture and jewellery made by local artist Hannah Clayton.

Another delay tactic falls into place as we leave the Coromandel and follow the Firth of Thames through Miranda to Kaiaua. We're not alone on this route and are amazed to see campervans parked bumper-to-bumper along the coast for over a kilometre. Bird-watching, perhaps? Who knew?

But we speed on to Kawakawa Bay, where we make the last-minute decision to spend another night on the water's edge and, hey, if we get up early we can have the OCV back to base and be in the office in time for that 9am meeting. Here's to living the dream for just one more night.

Amanda Linnell's OCV was provided by Roadcraft.

ROADCRAFT: Call at 21 Rennie Drive, Airport Oaks, phone (09) 255 5300 or visit roadcraft.co.nz.

COROMANDEL: Coromandel Oyster Company, 1611 SH25, Tiki Rd, Coromandel, phone (07) 866 8028. The Coromandel Smoking Company, 70 Tiki Rd, Coromandel, phone (07) 866 8793. The Peppertree Restaurant, 31 Kapanga Rd, Coromandel, phone (07) 866 8211. Cathedral Cove Sea Kayaking, 88 Hahei Beach Rd, Hahei, phone (07) 866 3877. Cathedral Cove Macadamias, 335 Lees Rd, Hahei, phone (07) 867 1230, or see cathedralcovemacadamias.co.nz. FURTHER INFORMATION: Visit thecoromandel.com.

Sunday Star Times – Driving force for a bright future

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:47:00 +1300

There's more than a whiff of optimism from one bloke sitting fair square in an industry - tourism - facing a nasty 2009.

John Managh, of Wilderness Motorhomes, is calling it "our year of fun". There's not a long face to be seen at the Rennie Dr, Mangere, Auckland, premises.

Then again, there are not many faces to be seen at Wilderness Motorhomes, full stop. It's a pretty small - sorry, boutique - operation. Rennie Dr is Kiwi motorhome central. Across the road and down a bit is Tourism Holdings' big Maui operation.

At Maui you queue, then you get moved from counter to counter by people in smart uniforms as you move ever closer to eventual departure in one of Maui's 1500 vans. The atmosphere bristles with apparent efficiency. But it takes time to get the job done. At Wilderness you're met with a welcome sign by the front door carrying your name, and a smiling John Managh - the boss man himself - in blue jeans, to greet you.

He sits you down in the lounge and gives you the line - the Wilderness fleet of 36 vans is the best there is and the company is bucking the gloomy trend in tourism. Spring saw full occupancy of Wilderness's motorhome fleet and it is on target to do the same through to autumn.

Behind him on a shelf is a silver award announcing Wilderness Motorhomes as the fastest-growing tourism business on the Deloitte Fast 50 List. Over the past two years revenue growth was 303.74%.

Then again, the young and the vigorous find it easier to notch up these sorts of figures from a low base. And that is an apt description of both Managh and the company he owns 50-50 with his sister, Mary Hamilton.

A Kiwi bloke who had built stuff from way back, Managh built his first campervan while on OE in California, and another for an overland trip from London to Cape Town.

Doing the same after returning home to Thames was not a given. His father, the late Keith Managh, owned Thames Timber, a significant business in the town, since sold to a big US corporation.

"Dad's philosophy was join the family business, sure, but only after proving yourself elsewhere," says Managh.

But after discarding business plan after plan, Managh came back to motorhomes. He imported six Toyota Hiaces, which he fitted out himself, formed Wilderness Motorhomes in 2004, and began renting to tourists.

He discovered being young and vigorous is no guarantee of success. Even he had to agree his vans weren't the greatest, and decided to compete with the big boys on quality, not cost.

In 2006 he brought the business to Auckland, purchased a motorhomes service centre as well as much larger premise in Rennie Dr, and created another company called Roadcraft Group, which began importing new Fiat Ducato maxi panel vans, which he built as his new generation fleet.

Roadcraft is the manufacturing arm of the business, selling 50% of its imports to Wilderness Motorhomes and the rest to other clients, fitted out for a variety of purposes.

It's that reshaping of the business which has seen things take off for Managh and his sister, and the team of 16 who work with them at Mangere.

Not that growth is everything for Managh. "We'll always be like a boutique hotel among the big accommodation chains," he said.

He does not envisage Wilderness Homes growing beyond a motorhome fleet of 150. But that would still allow plenty of blue sky for a business with a current annual turnover of $8 million.

By GARRY SHEERAN - Sunday Star Times

Otago Daily Times – Campervan holiday from hell

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 16:47:00 +1300

Nigel Benson was as excited as we've seen him when he was offered a free holiday in a 21st century campervan late last year. But it turned into the holiday from hell.

It was my first holiday in a year and I couldn't wait.

New Zealand campervan manufacturer RoadCraft had offered me one of their state-of the-art mobile homes to take through its paces.

Actually, it was more of a mobile palace than a mobile home.

The $129,000 Base Jumper model was a veritable four-star hotel on wheels.

The 6m-long vans are based on the Fiat Ducato and boast a flat-screen colour TV, MP3 surround sound stereo, DVD player, bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers and just about every other modern appliance known.

The only thing missing was room service. And it wasn't afraid of getting its feet wet.

The vehicle was designed for rugged adventures and, if we did come unstuck, it had a long-life energy system which provided enough power to last for four days.

Rescuers would surely find us in four days.

"RoadCraft has brand values very much focused on adventure and pursuing the road less travelled," RoadCraft marketing leader Gray Borrell told me.

"Just go for your life. They're designed for New Zealand off-road conditions, so get out there and have fun."

Right you are, then.

I grabbed my mate Pieter van de Klundert, who is the director of Quality Service Management in Dunedin, and off we went.

The plan was to head up to Golden Bay and the northwest corner of the South Island, an area I've never really explored.

Tom Jones from Dunedin's Green Man Brewery also kindly loaded us up with a few dozen of his fine products.

Speight's Breweries flew me to London on "The Great Beer Delivery" last year, so it's been a good couple of years for beers.

So, all set for a great holiday then. Well, not exactly.

We were barely out of Christchurch when I started feeling ill. Like, seriously ill.

My throat was burning and I felt weak and couldn't eat and had a terrible fever.

But we were deep in the northern South Island wilderness, so all I could do was lay in the back of the, albeit very comfortable, camper while Piet drove on and enjoyed the scenery.

He whistled and sang along with the stereo and told me about all beautiful places we were passing. We wound our way inland from the coast through places with names like Mouse Point, past Hanmer Springs and up through the Nelson Lakes National Park; some of the most beautiful country in the country.

Piet was having a ball.

I lay in the back, gritting my teeth and silently hating him.

Just before Nelson - I noted with bitter irony - there is a small township called Hope. Yeah, right.

We caught up with a good mate of mine in Nelson. He and Piet discussed my condition; in a fairly detached sort of way, I thought.

And over a few of my Green Man beers, of course.

Deciding that nothing could be done, the two new friends abandoned me and went off into town together to have some fun.

I stayed in the back of the campervan groaning.

And so it continued. I rolled around in misery, while Piet drank my beer and explored the top of the South Island, through Motueka and Takaka and Golden Bay.

Golden Bay was overcast and drizzling. It matched my mood perfectly.

But Piet was quite happy. Drinking my beer.

On the way back through Nelson, he convinced me to go to a doctor.

By then, I'd lost nearly 10kg and the doctor was talking about putting me in hospital for the night.

Bugger that - I was on holiday. So he gave me a plethora of painkillers and on we continued.

We edged our way down the Paparoa National Park to Punakaiki and through Greymouth, before heading inland to Blackball, where we visited the infamous Hilton Hotel.

Down the street, the Blackball pie cart served up one of the best whitebait patties either of us had ever tasted. It was the first solid food I'd managed since we left Christchurch six days earlier.

With our eagerly awaited trip nearly at an end, I was finally coming right.

Then it was back down the coast to the Kumara Junction and on to Otira Highway and Arthurs Pass.

But even then our dramas weren't over. At Turiwhate, we decide to go exploring off-road and, of course, immediately got hopelessly trapped in soft sand.

We jumped up and down at passing traffic like demented monkeys until a good Southern man in a four-wheel-drive (Swanndri, oilskin vest and laconic "howya goin' fellas?") finally pulled over and towed us out.

We gave him the last of my Green Man beer by way of thanks.

Piet reckons he's never going on holiday with me again. But we both want one of these campers.

Nigel Benson was driven around courtesy of Pieter van de Klundert and RoadCraft (www.roadcraft.co.nz).

Humble beginnings of the ultimate explorer's vehicle

The company that became RoadCraft was established in a backyard workshop in Otahuhu in 2004 by John Managh.

Managh wanted to build the ultimate exploration vehicle after travelling overseas in exotic locations like Alaska and the Sahara Desert.

He started by importing low-mileage Toyota Hiace vans from Japan, which were leased to tourists. "I turned the basic vans into sweet little campers. I figured out what worked and what didn't," he recalls.

His sister, Mary Hamilton, soon came on board.

"People started asking if we had anything bigger and Mary's kids were egging us to go on the adventures as well. So, we picked up some larger ex-rental motorhomes and gave them a new lease of life.

"We were in the family camping game.

"The kids loved it - a new place to visit every day, but the same bed to sleep in at night and the same drawer to keep their gear in. Business was good.

"But sadly, after a while, we realised that the vehicles didn't really like the adventures we were into - the bumpy roads, the mountain cold and carrying lots of toys.

"Conventional vans are built to transport you from campground to campground. At the end of the day, you hook up to mains power and everything works.

"We wanted an OCV that allows you the freedom to camp over anywhere, without being reliant on a 240V hook-up," Managh says.

"We were sure that people wanted motorhomes they could take anywhere, anytime and have a great time doing it.

"So, we bought a motorhome manufacturing and refit business and renamed it `RoadCraft'.

With a well-set up workshop and a team of experienced motorhome builders, we were ready to put together the ultimate explorer.

"Over a couple of months, our first Base Jumper was handcrafted, refined, road-tested, and finally put into production. Before long, the locals started asking where they could get one.

So, we moved out of the workshop in Otahuhu, and set up a scarily-big factory near the airport, so we could get serious about manufacturing."

The company now sells and leases the mobile homes from Auckland and Christchurch.

By Nigel Benson

Unlimited – All in the family

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 16:47:00 +1300

Rental company Wilderness Motorhomes is run on old-fashioned family values. HE AHA te mea nui? He tangata; he tangata; he tangata. What is the most important thing? It is people; it is people; it is people.

That old Maori saying was oft used by the late Keith Managh, particularly when discussing loyal staff at the family’s Thames sawmill. Now his son, John Managh, and daughter, Mary Hamilton, are emulating his business mores. They co-own motorhome rental company Wilderness Motorhomes, a Fast50 newcomer ranking number 18 with a two-year growth rate of 303.74%.

When facing tough business decisions, the siblings often ask, “What would Dad do?”

“A lot of that is unsaid, because we’re really indoctrinated in Dad’s style of business,” Hamilton says, “but we do use it as an anchor for decision-making.”

John Managh’s speech is peppered with “doing the righty”, rather than the wrong thing, when dealing with customers. He reckons these old-fashioned values make a difference to the company’s service delivery. “We treat all customers like they are family.”

He founded Wilderness Motorhomes in 2004 after spending eight years travelling; his boy’s own adventures included working on Alaskan crab boats and driving overland tours through Africa. On his return, he wanted to start a company and spent hours screwing up business plan after business plan.

He finally hit on the idea of importing near-new Toyota Hiaces and fi tting them out himself as motorhomes for less than the price he could sell them. Even if the rental business went belly up he wouldn’t lose money. His competitive edge was to personally greet each customer at the airport, as you would a family member, and tell them about the places Kiwis go. His father liked the business plan so much he bought a half share in the company.

All went well the fi rst year, but then Keith Managh died from cancer, growth in tourist numbers started declining and competitor fleet sizes increased. And even Managh didn’t rate the second-hand motorhomes he was renting out. “It was mutton dressed as lamb. People would hop in the vehicles and go, ‘Oh.’”

But then Hamilton, who was looking for a new venture after the family sawmill was sold, bought her father’s half-share in the company. “I loved being in business, but most of all I loved being in a business with my family.” The siblings have complementary strengths; Managh’s entrepreneurial enthusiasm is tempered by Hamilton’s analytical abilities.

They agreed on a radically-changed business model, one based on competing on quality rather than cost. They bought Motorhomes Service Centre, renamed it RoadCraft Group, and began fi tting out motorhomes suited for the Kiwi lifestyle. The six core design principles include indoor/outdoor fl ow, room to store big boys’ toys, and a really comfy couch to chill out on. Roadcraft sells half its motorhomes to Wilderness.

It was a big call, investing a lot of money while disposing of their existing fl eet. But it’s worked, if ranking above its Kiwi competitors on independent Web 2.0 review site Rankers is anything to go by. I wonder what Dad would say about that?

Hauraki Herald – Growth in the Wilderness

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:47:00 +1300

A campervan business which started in Thames four years ago has cracked the list of New Zealand’s 50 fastest-growing companies.

Wilderness Motorhomes is the dreamchild of John Managh, who several years ago returned to his hometown of Thames after extensive overseas travel. What started out as a business plan scrawled on the kitchen table of his parents’ home has become a highly successful company, ranking 18th on the 2008 Deloitte Fast 50, with 303.74 percent revenue growth over a three-year period.

John runs Wilderness Motorhomes with his sister Mary Hamilton, with the company now based near Auckland Airport for logistical reasons. However, it all started in Thames. ‘‘After coming home from overseas, I spent a year at home at mum and dad’s, drawing up business plans, screwing them up and throwing them away until I came up with one that worked,’’ he says. That plan involved entering the campervan market. At first John looked at the backpacker market, but realised it would take 22 backpacker campervans to break even, but just six for the higher end market. Using his background in engineering – ‘‘I’ve built overland trucks in Africa and worked on crab boats’’ – John built the first six campervans in a shed at Totara, using local businesses for things like the interior joinery and some of the panelwork.

In those days, Wilderness Motorhomes was the epitome of a small, self-employed business. ‘‘I used to drive a campervan up to the airport in Auckland and wait for the customer to arrive, then hitchhike or find a ride back to Thames,’’ John says. While he couldn’t take on the bigger companies in terms of logistics or funding, right from the start John targeted areas where he could compete, such as customer service and internet presence. He says he saw too many small companies that had ‘‘small looking’’ websites, whereas he wanted a professional-looking site. Good customer service meant doing away with the hidden costs all too often associated with rental companies, and ‘‘doing the righty’’ by customers. ‘‘It’s not rocket science – you build on the fundamentals of respect and trust,’’ John says. This dedication to good customer service is reflected not only in the Deloitte Fast 50 ranking, but also in feedback on internet sites such as Rankers.co.nz, which allows customers to comment favourably or critically of businesses they have used. Wilderness Motorhomes has been ranked on the website 47 times, with 45 of those giving the company a 10/10 ranking and the other two a 9/10 ranking.

Wilderness Motorhomes has come a long way from those first six campervans built in a shed at Totara. Around 18 months ago John bought a Roadcraft – which now builds the campervans. Hauraki Coromandel residents will be familiar with Roadcraft as the main sponsor of the K2 race. John says what makes Wilderness Motorhomes’ campervans different from the competition is that they’re built for New Zealand conditions aren’t branded with logos and are top of the line: ‘‘Like comparing a Ferrari with a Lada’’. Today Wilderness Motorhomes employs a team of around 15 people, and while it is based in Auckland, John says it is still a Coromandel business. ‘‘When I talk to customers I spend about half an hour talking about the Coromandel and two minutes on the rest of the country. I’m so passionate about the area.’’

He says the Deloitte Fast 50 ranking is great recognition for the hard work put in by his team, and something he could not have even dreamed about when he was toiling away in the shed, building the first fleet of campervans.

Right at home on the road

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:47:00 +1200

Nikki MacDonald The Dominion Post Tuesday 9th September 2008

We're on the road and into the first few corners when there's an almighty crash as the grocery box lurches off its perch on the bed, scattering food everywhere. Then another bang, and cursing from the driver's seat, as a drawer we forgot to secure slides open. I'm starting to think maybe we're just not cut out for campervanning.

But it's exactly people like us – young(ish), outdoorsy couple – that Auckland-based campervan manufacturer RoadCraft is appealing to with its swanky Base Jumper vans. Their theory: twentysomethings do it (think baked-bean and Vegemite-fuelled VW Combi tours of Europe), oldies do it (think lace doily curtains and 10-car tailback), so what happens in between?

The answer is: we go a bit mushy and demand comfort and warmth.

So what would happen, the designers pondered, if you teamed comfort and convenience, even in the middle of a bone-chilling winter?

Our first test is negotiating the curling ribbons of road on a sodden Coromandel Peninsula, on our way to Hahei. Built on a Fiat Ducato chassis, the Base Jumper has plenty of grunt, and easy steering that feels more like a car than a truck. But I still feel like a nana, perched on high, with the house on the back.

There's just time to duck out to Hot Water Beach. The last time I was here, busloads of tourists destroyed my childhood memories of deserted natural spas dug into the sand. This time our luck's coming in with the tide – there's nothing quite as satisfying as passing a Kiwi Experience bus travelling in the opposite direction. Like shining cuckoos we swoop on the hard-dug pools, soaking in the abandoned craters till the cold tide wins out.

The first of many "no overnight stays" signs in the car park forces us on to Hahei Beach, where we park, and convert couch and table to double bed for the first and last time.

No expense has been spared setting up the Base Jumper – there's a fridge, gas stove and grill, coffee plunger, teapot, entertainment system with TV and DVD player for nights in, and a BBQ and outdoor furniture for summer evenings.

The drawers are like a Fisher Price Shape Sorter toy – each utensil has to be slotted into its right hole. But it's full of well thought-out little touches – the tap extends on a hose, so you can rinse your feet before climbing on board; an air vent converts the bathroom to a drying room when the diesel heating is on; and you don't need to be hooked up to a power source to fire up electricity and warmth.

That's no surprise when you learn of RoadCraft founder and engineer John Managh's background. First there was Gloria – Managh's first cargo van-turned-camper, fitted out to travel the Alaskan highway with some Kiwi mates. When Gloria ended up over a bank with an Aussie at the wheel, Managh turned his sights to Africa, building an overlander that accommodated eight people, five mountain bikes and 15 spare wheels.

The Base Jumper is set up to carry kayaks, but we're cheating – hiring boats from Hahei for a half- day tour of Cathedral Cove and the offshore islands.

It's easy to see the attraction of a portable house when you wake up to morning light on the water just metres away. A leisurely paddle around the islands, cappuccino on the beach, and I'm definitely getting used to this idea.

There's less need for Houdini- changing manoeuvres than in your average car, but getting around in the back of the van is like pacing out a dance routine – forward and forward and side-to-pass and forward. But at least we can dry out our kayak gear instead of sealing it in containers and hoping the stench doesn't seep out.

Speaking of stenches, next stop is Rotorua.

It's a long drive on poor roads to Lake Tarawera, but the van manages okay. It's just on dusk when we find a lakeside reserve and settle in with a beer. Damn. Should have brought the kayaks. The lake is flat-calm and deserted and there's a map tantalisingly marking hot springs on the opposite shore.

There's no loo where we're parked, so we have to use the van's, which means, somewhere down the line, we'll have to empty it.

That wasn't the drama I expected – a simple slosh into a council waste dump sorted it.

As the winter evening chill hovers, we appreciate the benefits of inside cooking. While a tent can be toasty year-round, whoever is on dinner has to brave frostbitten fingers to cook outside.

It's Wednesday. It must be biking – at Whakarewarewa Forest. The poor Planet Bike hire guy is apprehensive: one self- confessed biking weed and the other still nursing the painful memory of two broken ribs. We take the non-guided option to minimise embarrassment.

I'm about ready to give up after skidding out on the kids' loop, but it's pretty country, and, thankfully, most trails are safely out of sight of the gnarly jumps course. A quick time trial on the kids' loop to finish and both bikes and riders are returned in one piece, and not too hellishly sore.

We were supposed to overnight at the gorgeous Waikite Valley hot springs, where steam from a boiling river veils the valley. But, not fancying such a long morning drive to the slopes, we stay beside Lake Taupo instead.

The van easily manages the climb to Turoa skifield, though four-wheel-drive would be useful and reassuring.

Having a warm and dry shelter at altitude is also handy.

But the campervan concept comes into its own on the Friday when filthy weather cancels our outdoor plans. We detour to Raglan, where neither of us have ever been, to watch surfers paddle out through the rainbows, like little black spiders crawling through the surf.

It's that flexibility that appeals in a campervan, the ability to make spontaneous decisions without having to book or cancel accommodation, and to sleep in stunning remote spots. But it's not a budget holiday, especially with rising fuel costs. And if the campervan is to replace the increasingly unaffordable bach, New Zealand will have to shed its officious campervan- phobia.

Raglan's council must have spent thousands putting up signs at every conceivable stopping spot. And the attitude seemed to be reinforced when a random driver gave us the fingers salute for no apparent reason other than the fact we were driving a van.

* Nikki Macdonald's trip was courtesy of RoadCraft. FACT FILE A fully kitted-out Base Jumper sells for $129,000. RoadCraft's rental arm, Wilderness Motorhomes, hires the vans in winter and spring at a base rate of $125 a day.

Motorhomes, Caravans & Destinations Magazine – A van for all seasons

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:47:00 +1200

A van for all seasons RoadCraft’s owners say the philosophy of their boutique business combines tried and true with new.

This South Auckland motorhome manufacturing business is owned by John Managh and his sister Mary, who lives in Thames. The two are also owners of RoadCraft’s associated rental business, Wilderness Motorhomes.

The company is John’s brainchild and his philosophy and vision for its products are well honed. “Our design philosophy combines tried and true with innovative and new, avoiding what I feel are superficial trends,” he says. “Our RVs must be ‘four seasons capable’ and so they have good insulation, diesel heaters and effective ventilation. Comfort is another essential ingredient. I believe a hard day’s tramping earns you the right to a comfortable bed for a good night’s sleep. “Socialising or just chilling out is more satisfying if you have a comfortable couch to lounge on. And then you must have room to stow the toys: the kayak, the bicycle, the surfboard. Hiking, biking, kayaking and tramping enthusiasts are our focus.”

John is the youngest of five children, and was raised in a family with a heritage in forestry and saw milling. His personal background however, is in engineering. Like many New Zealanders before him, he headed overseas after he had finished his training. His travels took him to Africa where he helped to build truck-based tourist travel vehicles and it was there, he says, that he learnt the need for stamina and how to make vehicles tough and enduring. Back in NZ and looking for a business opportunity, John had several ideas but finally settled on the one that married his passions for travel and design. The idea of building motorhomes for sale as well as for use in a rental fleet is not a new one, there are many other people in this sort of business in New Zealand. The difference in John’s business plan was the type of clients the business would cater to and the sorts of vehicles required to meet their needs. Functional space is a cornerstone. Easily accessible kitchen storage and bathrooms that serve as drying rooms are examples. Other RoadCraft requirements include good indoor/ outdoor connection providing easy viewing and access, an outside shower and a convenient BBQ arrangement.

The business got underway in 2004 with six Toyota HiAce campervans. They were purchased second-hand and refurbished to include as many of the essential RoadCraft ingredients as was practical. They didn’t meet all of the RoadCraft criteria, but it was a valuable experience as to what worked and what didn’t, and what clients liked and what they didn’t. RoadCraft constantly challenged its clients to “show us a better rental campervan than the one we are renting to you”. This experience and client feedback helped the plans for the RoadCraft ‘dream machine’ to evolve. The RoadCraft dream evolved into the BaseJumper, which had its first public airing at the annual National Motorhome Show at Hamilton in March this year, (Issue 43, April 2008). Based on the new Fiat Ducato Maxi panel van, with a 2.3 litre 120hp Turbo diesel and a sixspeed manual gearbox, it provided the stimulating drive the design philosophy called for. “With ABS and disc brakes all round, air-con in the cab and 10 litres/100kms fuel consumption, it is just like a big car to drive, and it can be driven by car licence holders as it weighs less than 3500kg fully laden,” says John.

Gray Borrell, marketing leader for RoadCraft, offered to show me some of the features that illustrate the points set out in the design brief. “We used this solid one-piece macrocarpa bench-top in the BaseJumper to bring an element of nature right into the vehicle. Below the bench-top we have drawers rather than cupboards. There is a specific place for all the utensils and equipment so everything is easy to find. The settee cushions are constructed from layers of different density foam and are contoured, which improves both comfort levels and appearance.” Gray stretched out on the settee to make a point.

“These convert into a large, very comfortable bed for two,” he said. “If you are on, say, a skiing trip and the weather confines you to barracks, you can turn on the diesel-fed heater and remain as warm as toast while you wait for the weather to clear.” Judging by the satisfied glint in his eye, I reckon he’s done that more than once! The 15-inch TV and accompanying DVD/CD sound system would ensure you weren’t bored. Roof racks and bike racks can be added to the BaseJumper to carry recreational toys but RoadCraft can also supply a custom-built trailer, tailor-made to requirements and providing a more secure way to transport the treasures.

BaseJumpers now forms a substantial part of the rental fleet of Wilderness Motorhomes. This year around 50 percent of the BaseJumper production has gone into the fleet. Wilderness has an office in the RoadCraft building at Airport Oaks, Mangere, and another at Papanui in Christchurch. It has a fleet of around twenty vehicles and the plan is to add to it in the coming years.

The manufacturing facility was busy with staff coming and going around the seven vehicles, which were at various stages of construction on the workshop floor. They appeared to be weathering the quiet patch the economy is going through well. What does the future hold for RoadCraft? “Good things” says John. “We have a new coach-built model on a Ducato cab/chassis under way, which is due for release in the second quarter of 2009. It’s aimed at the same market, but larger groups, families, that sort of thing.”

We wish him well and look forward to seeing this new product, which will be developed with RoadCraft’s philosophy in mind.

Motorhomes, Caravans & Destinations Magazine – A Base in the Wild

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 16:47:00 +1200

Conventional wisdom says motorhomes appeal mainly to retirees content to savour life at idle-speed. But RoadCraft’s BaseJumper is for adrenalin junkies – those who like to push the limits – in comfort, of course.

As the name implies, the BaseJumper is targeted at those looking for a little more zing in their holiday – people who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, mountain biking, paragliding, fishing – whatever pushes their buttons.

In essence, that means it’s built to handle atypical holiday climates and environments (think snow, ice, cold, wet… rugged terrain) – and get you as close to the action as you dare. So it boasts features such as superior thermal insulation, a diesel heater, a drying room – and a grunty 120hp, turbo-charged diesel engine to take you off the beaten track.

Assembled at RoadCraft’s Auckland factory, the BaseJumper is designed for two and is built on a Fiat Ducato Maxi chassis, a model that’s proved so popular the Italian giant now manufactures it specifically for the international motorhome industry.

It’s a front-wheel drive vehicle, and its power plant – a 2.3-litre, four-cylinder, common rail diesel – delivers its traction through a six-speed manual gearbox. Fully kitted, the motorhome only weighs 3500kg, so you can drive it on a standard car licence. And boasting a much more streamlined body than your typical motorhome (it is, after all, an Italian design), the curvy aerodynamics provide a relatively low drag-coefficient. It’s a lot like driving a large car.

The 120hp engine offers plenty of power for cruising up hills, and the vehicle’s good ground clearance is great for taking you across awkward terrain. ABS braking and large diameter discs all round provide excellent control and stopping power.

As always, fuel efficiency depends on your driving style, but RoadCraft has supplied a number of the vehicles to rental fleets, and says average consumption pans out at around 10kms per litre. It carries a 90-litre fuel tank.

Cab comforts/accessories include dual air bags, a height-adjustable steering wheel, bucket seats, air conditioning, and a CD/radio player with controls on the steering wheel. Unlike most motorhomes, this one doesn’t have the any bodywork extending over the cab or windscreen, so there’s great visibility and a refreshing sense of spaciousness.

Stand-out exterior styling features are the cool set of mag wheels, and large-lens headlights and tail lights that can only be described as works of art. But the piece de resistance (for me) is the subtle graphic adorning the vehicle. It’s an enlarged, topographic map showing contour lines, and more than anything else, hints at the BaseJumper’s adventure pedigree.

Depending on your preferences, the vehicle’s large boot can carry a range of extreme toys, though you might have to use the (optional) matching trailer for mountain bikes, hot-air balloons and kayaks.

Climate Control

Given its target market, the BaseJumper’s designed to venture into climates lesser-spirited travellers might choose to avoid. Consider skiers/snow-boarders, for example.

While it’s suitability for icy terrain sees snow chains supplied as a standard item, the real proof is in the interior insulation. The steel shell is lined with three layers – polyurethane foam, plywood and carpeting. It makes for a very cosy, snug interior, free of condensation.

If it gets really cold, the cocoon can be heated by a 2.2kW diesel-burning Eberspächer (fed from the main tank). Best of all, the bathroom converts to a drying room. It’s purpose-made for wet ski-gear, with heated towel rails (also courtesy of the Eberspächer), so you’ll step into dry kit the next morning.

Interior

Built for two, it’s a compact but well thought-out, functional layout with easy-to-clean surfaces. The U-shaped settee and dining table at the rear of the vehicle converts to a queen bed (1900 x 1500mm). Standard lockers with plenty of usable storage lie under the squabs.

Solid macrocarpa is used for galley surfaces, and the timber’s honey tones present a sense of warmth. Kitchen equipment includes a four-burner Spinflow gas cooker and grill, an 80-litre 12v Engel fridge (with freezer compartment), a sink (with hot/cold mixer) and drawers and lockers stocked with a full complement of pots, pans, crockery and cutlery. Hot water’s supplied by a 14-litre Truma gas heater (it also operates on 240v).

Two water tanks (91 litres each) are built in under the floor (keeps the centre of gravity down low). One is fresh water, the other is for grey water. Both are connected to easy-to-monitor level gauges. If you’re not fussed about modesty, you could also use the outside shower.

Given the remote terrain BaseJumper owners are likely to find themselves in, the electrically-powered fridge is a smart move – there’s not as much of a premium on finding a perfectly level site (as with gas fridges). And if you do have accessories requiring 240v AC (mobile phone chargers, cameras, laptops), on-board power is supplied by a 600-watt inverter. The inverter also allows you to carry a microwave oven.

The vehicle’s fitted with two 220 amp-hour, deep-cycle, 6v house batteries (making 12v) and a conventional 12v start battery for the engine. In addition to the array of halogen lights used throughout the living area, the batteries drive the Majestic home theater system (with its 15” LCD screen) and a CD/DVD/MP3/MP4 player and radio.

There is also an iPod auxiliary socket – and I really like the DVD player’s SD card input. This takes the card from your camera, so (with a robust merlot in hand) you can review the day’s wild activities on the LCD screen.

For the security conscious, a small, lockable safe is built into one of the lockers. It’s bolted and glued into position.

The vehicle comes with a three-year structural warranty on the fit out, and a one-year warranty on the appliances. Fiat offers a three-year/200,000km warranty on chassis and engine.

A perfect companion for the adventurous, the BaseJumper will encourage you to give your imagination free rein – in the nicest possible way. As RoadCraft’s marketing manager Paul Cook says: wild at heart doesn’t mean you have to live in a cave.