Hi

We have a similar dilema - when we land in Aukland we are hoping to buya camper & tour down to Nelson.

I have noticed that on trademe that there are a few 4wd camper vans, which are toyota hi-ace types. That is a panel van conversion as opposed to a coachbuilt lump on the back of a cab. I guess these are akin to the VW type you mentioned. We found it a struggle to find a decent 4 berth panl van conversion, but there are a few about. Our ideal camper is an isuzu Rodeo, based on a pick-up chassis, with an over cab bed, toilet, shower etc. Wethink this will suit us better as its not too big and has a good sized engine - so it shouldnt struggle over the hills.

With regards to stuff for the camper van, we are taking the essentials to keep us going - cork screw, wine glasses, pint pots, oh! and plates etc along with sleeping bags asits mostly lihjtweight stuff and we have 40kg each with emirates. Stocking up with new pans at Warehouse will be a necessity anyway as it will be a few weeks in our new home until the container arrives.

We also needed to think about the volume of our luggage. 160kg of clothes and assorted posessions is going to need some shoe-horning into a 4x4 unless its a Toyota landcruiser, or the infamous big horn.

These may give you a few ideas. They all have good sized engines with plenty of "Ggrrrrr";

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...n-55886517.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...n-59540458.htm
http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Mo...n-59779041.htm

Hope our thoughts and ramblings help you

Cheers


Nick