Eventually, Our Choice:

The Swift Sterling Wayfarer Caravan

At just under 8 metres overall length and 2.25 metres wide, the Wayfarer's 1.5 tonnes is supported by tandem axles along with the jockey wheel when parked. In the Wayfarer, Swift have combined form and function in to a well balanced end product.

This van utilises the AL-KO 3004 anti-sway hitch and the AL-KO  computer-based ATC stability system designed to stifle any van swaying or skidding, thereby providing a very safe towable trailer.

The Automatic Trailer Control (ATC) system has proved to be an exceptionally valuable safety tool.

Inside, the van is remarkably roomy, well appointed with very comfortable and modern furnishings.

Looking from the front toward the bedroom and bathroom

Looking aft, this van has twin settees at the front which provide very comfortable seating for 4 people and convert easily in to an extra good sized double bed.

Further back is a well equipped kitchen with microwave oven, full sized oven, hob and a fridge/freezer opposite.

Beyond the living area is the east/west queen-sized bed with plenty of wardrobe space including full-length hanging.

At rear is a spacious toilet and shower occupying the full van width. Ample cupboards, lighting and hanging rails are provided as is a heated towel rail.

All in all, a very comfortable unit which we are looking forward to carting around our country to see and experience the sights.

The Shell

OK. We've decided to throw away the working lark and to plan chasing our dreams.

Mount a shell upon our backs and begin to visit the beautiful sights of our own country. So where do we start?

•  Caravan / motor home / camper trailer / 5th wheeler? So many choices. But it doesn't stop there.
• There are also so many options under each of the different choices:
•  how many do you want to sleep?
• what length?
• bathroom facilities?
• refrigerator size?
• single/double axle?
• English / Australian / Kiwi built?

. . . . . and on and on.

Finally following attending three caravan/motor home shows in Christchurch, Hamilton and Auckland, we chose one of the Swift vans to be our 'shell'.

So now, after paying the deposit we are avidly tracking the Maren Maersk as she transports our beauty from the factory in England to the shores of New Zealand. Currently 'our ship' is approaching the roads of Johor Bahru where our wee van will be off-loaded and then stacked on a second container ship bound for Auckland, due to berth July 1st at this time.

From Auckland the van will be transported to New Plymouth where Merit RV will complete some minor customisation, mainly adding and upgrading the battery capacity and additional solar panels to keep those batteries topped up.