Wilderness Motorhomes

If you’ve seen the Robin Williams movie “Runaway Vacation”, the thought of having to empty the campervan toilet maybe enough to put you off the campervan experience entirely.  But that need not be so.  In order to allay any fears you may have, I attempted to find a You Tube video on “how to empty a campervan toilet” but sadly I had more luck finding “how not to” videos.  Take poor Helen who did not listen to the instructions when she picked up her rental camper.  She is paralysed by the fear that she will end up covered in toilet contents so doesn’t think straight (either that or she’s not very bright).  Her ever so helpful partner’s best contribution to the task is “shall we ring Julia?”  Frenchman Renard has a few more ideas but still makes it look much more difficult than it really is.

So in the absence of a good video to show you how do it, here’s my quick and simple explanation.  The toilets in New Zealand rental campervans are usually the basic cassette type unlike the full septic tank system in Robin Williams 50ft RV so you don’t need to fuss with miles of hoses.  The toilet has a small box (cassette) attached to the base that can be removed through a small door on the outside of the motorhome.  Once removed just carry the cassette to the dump station drain.  The cassette even has wheels and an extractable handle so you can wheel it just like your airline luggage.  Unscrew the yellow cap and hold the cassette over the drain while you pour out the contents.  There’s a little yellow button on the top of the cassette that lets air in to make the pour easier and prevent splash back.  When it’s empty, just give it a quick rinse (the dump station will have a fresh hose nearby), add some toilet chemical (which most rental companies supply) and slot it back in.  Then put the jug on, make yourself a cup of tea, and congratulate yourself on being a seasoned camper.

If you’ve wondered why motorhome rental companies insist you empty the toilet in your camper before you return it, just watch this video of the long suffering Jane.  Other people’s waste is definitely less pleasant than your own!

There’s been so much in the media on this topic over the past year, that campervan users may have gained the impression that freedom camping is very unwelcome in New Zealand or even banned. Neither is correct. Most areas of New Zealand warmly welcome campervan users. However, a few irresponsible campers have left a bad impression about campervanning with the locals in some parts of the country. The culprits are usually people in low budget vans with no toilet or water storage facilities. All Wilderness campervans and motorhomes are certified self-contained which means they meet the standards for having a low impact on the environment e.g. have a toilet and sink, sufficient water storage, and a sealable refuse container.

The Freedom Camping Act came into force on September 1. It has given local authorities the ability to prohibit freedom camping in specific areas and enforce the bans. You are liable for a NZ$200 instant fine (or up to $10,000 depending on the severity of the offence) if you (a) camp in an area where it is not permitted; (b) breach any restrictions at the area; (c) damage the area; (d) dispose of your waste inappropriately; or (e) refuse to move on if asked to by an enforcement officer. On the other hand, local authorities can’t impose blanket bans – that is, they have to specify areas where freedom camping is not permitted. People travelling in certified self-contained vehicles like ours still have the right to camp in all areas unless it’s specifically restricted under a council bylaw or Department of Conservation notice. Look out for the round sign containing a tent and campervan with a red line through it – they mark the spots you should avoid.

I think that the new law is pretty reasonable. It balances our right to freedom camp with the need to protect the environment. It’s New Zealand’s pristine landscapes that make it such a compelling destination. It’s in all our interests to protect that.

Once you understand your rights and responsibilities, the problem for visitors is getting information about where you can and can’t freedom camp. The best source of information is the Rankers I Respect New Zealand Camping Map. This detailed map provides up-to-date information about commercial and freedom camping sites, Department of Conservation camping sites, and dump stations. Plus it includes information about facilities and costs. The android or iPhone app is a must-have accessory for your next road trip.

Oh, and if you’re thinking about hiring a campervan to follow your rugby team around New Zealand this month, contact us. We still have a couple left and they’re certified self-contained to boot so you can enjoy a spot of freedom camping.

How are you planning to stay up-to-date with the action during the Rugby World Cup 2011 which kicks off in Auckland on September 9? I’ve just found this cool iPhone app that gives you the match schedule, scores, standings table, team profiles, venue details, latest news, and quick links to Facebook and other social networking pages so you can share your thoughts with other fans. Perfect for fans travelling to the games as well as those who wish they were.

With less than 100 days to go until kick off at the Rugby World Cup 2011, it’s time to reserve your campervan to ensure you won’t be left hitch-hiking from match to match.  Hiring a campervan will be the best way to see the tournament and take in the magnificient sights, meet the locals, and show off your team’s rugby jersey.  New Zealand is perfectly suited to touring by campervan with lots of well appointed holiday parks and camp sites in urban or remote locations – you choose.  Contact us now and help us get you on the road to the biggest gathering of rugby fans this year!

I have just returned from 5 wonderful days staying at the Taupo DeBrett’s Spa Resort in a Wilderness Longboarder 6 with my family.  The resort, tucked into a bushy little valley on the edge of Taupo, is fed by mineral waters that have soothed weary travellers for decades.  If you want to somewhere to recharge your batteries on a cool autumn day (or more), I can’t think of anywhere better.  We sat, we soaked, and then we screamed down the hydroslide (well at least some of the party did).  We parked the Longboarder in the well equipped campground adjacent to the pools so when we were done with bathing, we cooked up a feast in the motorhome, watched a movie, or played on the playground. The verdict from the children was that it was one of our best holidays and I arrived home relaxed and revived so it worked for me!  So if your tribe need an escape for a few days, why not pack them into a Wilderness motorhome and head for Taupo?

Due to a cancellation, we have ONE more Longboarder 6 available for Easter for pick up in Christchurch.  This very popular family motorhome was sold out for Easter weeks ago so if you’re still looking for an Easter get away, call us now.  If you would prefer something a little smaller, we still have a couple more of our other vehicles available too.  Don’t hesitate – these won’t be around for long.  Oh, and happy Easter from the Wilderness team.  Don’t eat too much chocolate!

Guess what I’m doing in the April school holidays?  I’m going to pile my three kids into a Wilderness Longboarder 6 motorhome and take them to Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort – their favourite thermal playground.  The team at DeBretts have put together a special stay two nights at the Resort and pay for one deal for Wilderness customers.  Plus you’ll get a two for one entry to the Taupo Hot Springs thermal complex right next door.  The ultimate school holiday getaway!  PS It’s a surprise so please don’t tell James, Anna, and Stella.

Did you know that New Zealand is a nuclear-free zone? New Zealanders feel so strongly about this that we have never built nuclear power plants. In 1984, Prime Minister David Lange barred nuclear-powered or nuclear-armed ships from using New Zealand ports or entering New Zealand waters.  Three years later, legislation was passed making New Zealand and its territorial sea nuclear-free.  So you can holiday here knowing the only fall out you’re likely to experience is a fall out of bed after a night indulging in the country’s best lager.

The team at the Christchurch Wilderness base would just like to let everyone know that it’s business as usual in the garden city. Matt, the Base Leader, asked me to tell you that the team and the base have come through the earthquake unscathed and are looking forward to setting you off on a Wilderness adventure. For more information about the earthquake, planning your visit, and what you can do to help, click here.