This month we will look at the slightly larger Pilote Galaxy G781FC motorhome. The G781 is the perfect option for those who are after that little bit of extra length and space but don't want to push it too far and exceed the 8-meter benchmark.

Tip: The Pilote G781 is also available in a single bed layout ....

Click on the link to check out technical specifications and further pictures...

https://www.deluxegroup.co.nz/Detail.html?id=3061191&dealerid=1177&pageNumber=1&sort=1&pageSize=12

Please note that RSE Limited is currently in liquidation and are therefore unable to trade and continue as our preferred service agent in Auckland.

We are however happy to announce that Total RV in Silverdale are now our preferred service agent for the Auckland area. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Daniel and Luke from Total RV are looking forward to hearing from you!!!

Click on the link below for further information...

https://totalrv.co.nz/

This month’s motorhome review is our much-loved Fiat Ducato Pilote Pacific P740. The model is arguably, alongside the G740, the most popular Pilote motorhome we import to New Zealand.

It seems to be the perfect compromise in many aspects and the modern layout and design has proven to be most practical and popular with our customers.

"P740FC EXPRESSION

​Discover this low profile motorhome, a perfect harmony of comfort and practicality. Inside, enjoy a cleverly arranged space and modern equipment for unforgettable journeys. Embark on boundless adventures aboard, the ideal partner for your escapades."

​Each area is pleasant and separate. Its stylish details and quality fittings make this a perfect travel companion for short getaways or longer trips. With a 4 legal seats and optional berths in the lounge, it can carry up to 4 passengers.

​The large garage is low and can be loaded from both sides making it easy to bring your bikes or camping gear on the road.

​Click on the link, check out further details and get in touch if you have any questions. Matt and I are always happy to have a yarn...

With a young family, fine dining is a guilty pleasure I don't get to indulge in very often anymore. However, when Poppy and I returned to Blenheim 4 years ago we made a point of visiting most restaurants we haven't visited yet in the region and this months "Local Hotspot" Arbour was one of those places which stuck with us.

If you enjoy the finer things in life, Arbour is a great secluded restaurant to celebrate that special occasion or simply treat yourself to a nice meal showcasing seasonal produce of the region. For us travelling has always been connected to food and wine and good fine dining experiences somehow manage to connect you to a region on a different level.

"Located in Marlborough, New Zealand, Arbour is a sole chef experience with kind, welcoming service. When you dine at Arbour you simply relax and enjoy what Bradley is cooking. His ever-changing set menu showcases local producers, hunters, growers and fishers. You can choose your own beverages or let Liz venture into the cellar for you.

"We love that Arbour is surrounded by passionate people producing exceptional wine and food. We have access to world class ingredients for our diners’ right on our doorstep.” Bradley Hornby.

Business partners, Bradley Hornby and Liz Buttimore have each spent two decades in five-star hotels, resorts and award winning restaurants. They live here in Marlborough with their partners Michelle and Benji."

https://www.arbour.co.nz/about

News about the change in legislation regarding self-containment is currently a hot topic in the industry and many people are confused about it. Most RV owners are NZMCA members and would have seen some updates throughout recent times, others may not be aware of any changes to the system at all.

I understand that all vehicles self-contained before the 07th June 2024 are not impacted by the change until the vehicle has to be recertified.

Vehicles needing a self-containment certificate from the 07th June 2024 are impacted and we are currently unable to certify those for freedom camping purposes under the current legislation. The governing authorities have not completed the process yet. The industry is expecting a firm update towards the end of the year and are hopeful for a final solution soon.

However we are still able to certify all vehicles we sell under specific NZMCA regulations in the meantime. The current NZMCA self-containment certification allows you to camp on all NZMCA properties.

Any members affected by the above will only receive a blue window card. The blue sticker will not be sent out.

We as a team are confident that the issue is currently being resolved and we are looking forward to the new system once its in place.

If you have purchased a vehicle through the Deluxe RV Group and have any questions related to the topic please feel free to give us a call.

The NZMCA defines self-containment as the below.

"What is Certified Self-Containment?

Certified self-containment is maintaining and certifying your motor caravan or caravan in accordance with the New Zealand Standard for Self-Containment of Motor Caravans and Caravans, NZS 5465:2001

The NZMCA encourages all motor caravan or caravan owners (including 5th Wheelers, caravans, campervans, motorhomes, RVs & buses), to certify their vehicles in accordance with NZS 5465, helping protect the environment and public health from indiscriminate waste disposal.

A certified self-contained vehicle meets the ablutionary and sanitary needs of the occupants for a minimum of three days, without requiring any external services or discharging waste.

Wastewater is then safely disposed of in approved dump stations, which can be found in most camping-grounds and public areas.

Please avoid the use of non-biodegradable chemicals as they will adversely affect the operation of sewerage networks including biological systems."

https://www.nzmca.org.nz/certified-self-containment-csc

Daryl and I will be heading to Christchurch on the 14th and 15th of September 2024 and showcase our Pilote Demonstrator motorhomes at the "Outdoor Expo".

The event is new and will run for the first time this year and we thought why not try something different and check it out. We are both very excited to see what the weekend will bring.

Click on the link below, visit the website and join us in supporting a new event!!!

https://www.outdoorexpo.co.nz/about

"Experience Something New ​

We're passionate about providing a unique and unforgettable experience, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that are sure to excite. Join us and find all the latest gear for your next adventure!"

Gear Up for Your Greatest Adventure Yet!

Whether your gear is worn from memorable past journeys, needing a fix, or you're on the hunt for cutting-edge outdoor tech, we've got you covered. Dive into a world where top outdoor brands unite, offering unbeatable deals. Prepare to elevate your exploration and adventure to new heights with the Outdoor Expo!

I am sticking with smaller motorhomes and will share our much-loved Pilote Pacific P650C motorhome with you. The P650 is the smallest permanent bed model we import and suits those who are keen to own a smaller motorhome but don't want to compromise on the comfort of a permanent bed.

This short motorhome can also be a great option for people considering a campervan as the P650 is shorter than most vans, drives just as easy and includes a lot more features and space.

Click on the link below and check out our current detailed listing:

https://www.deluxegroup.co.nz/Detail.html?id=2867619&dealerid=1177&pageNumber=1&sort=1&pageSize=12

​"Compact motorhomes stand out for their agile and economical driving. Their intelligent layout maximises interior space for optimum comfort on the move."

Poppy, Levi and I recently jumped on a plane to Germany to visit family and friends.

As much as we all love our little Kiwi motorhome holidays, an overseas adventure was exactly what we needed, and the holiday was all we hoped for.

​I must have taken over 1000 pictures and I am delighted to share a few with you all.

Above: Levi enjoying 40hours+ travelling

Poppy and I loved reconnecting with family and friends and the holiday was a big adventure for Levi. Getting to know his overseas family was a joy and the little man behaved like a champion.

Below: Singapore's butterfly garden

As it was our first overseas trip with Levi, we had absolutely no idea how the flights would go and were pleasantly surprised at how smooth it all went.

Below: First traditional meal in Frankfurt

​We explored Frankfurt for the first couple of days, indulging in local delicacies and Levi got to meet his great grandma and my uncle for the first time.

​After Frankfurt we travelled to my hometown and enjoyed two weeks visiting family and friends. Levi got to meet all his cousins and explored the surroundings like his Papa back in the day.

​We finished the trip in Frankfurt spending quality time with Levi's great grandma before flying back out to NZ.

This month I would like to introduce you to "The Store" in Kekerengu. I am sure many of you have either stayed at the campsite or stopped at the café for a quick coffee and a break. Or you are like me and often drive past it barely taking notice of the building and the campsite next to it.

Either way "The Store" in Kekerengu is located approx. 50min south of Blenheim on the way to Kaikoura and it's well worth a visit.

Click on the link below and check out the website...

https://www.thestore.kiwi/

Last month I reviewed our Pilote P696D motorhome and always get excited to share models and layouts which are less common. 

This month I am delighted to review our P696U motorhome. A brand-new example has arrived last week. European rear-lounge models are hard to find in New Zealand and our brand-new P696U is the only Pilote of its kind currently one in the country. 

​Enjoy the read and feel free to ask if you have any questions!!! 

Generous and welcoming, the P696U, low profile with U-shaped seating area, offers you direct contact with your surroundings. View of the vineyards or view of the wild side, you will appreciate the opportunity to connect with the outside. Welcome your friends to your second home in the large rear U-shaped lounge.

​Friendly, comfortable and open to the world and the countryside.

The bedroom 

​The sleeping area consists of a large XXL drop-down bed 160x200cm. Well thought out, the placement of the TV arm allows you to watch it from the comfort of your bed. A bed in the living room can accommodate 2 additional travelers since the P696U is also equipped with 4 legal travelling seats.

The bathroom

Cleverly placed between the cabin and the living room, you will appreciate the spaciousness of this bathroom. The large shower and the integrated dressing room allow you to have a space conducive to relaxation. Separated by a double partition from the rest of the motorhome, the bathroom also isolates you from the cabin. You can take full advantage of the well distributed heat. ​

The kitchen

Very functional, you will enjoy preparing good dishes in this bright kitchen. Equipped with many lights, it has a large, very functional worktop, multiple storage spaces and is equipped with a 153l automatic 3-way fridge and freezer. ​

The lounge 

Well installed in the XXL lounge, you can appreciate the panorama and the surrounding nature through the 3 large bays. The friendly living room will allow you to accommodate 7 people and take nice naps, without even lowering the bed.

Multi-use: If you want to enjoy a day of remote working in the countryside, the large table will accommodate your computer and a steaming cup of tea. The large table is foldable and the top sliding to facilitate movement. The many LED lights create a cozy atmosphere in the evening. 

​Click on the link below and check out the detailed listing:
​
​https://www.deluxegroup.co.nz/Detail.html?id=2498856&dealerid=1177&pageNumber=1&sort=1&pageSize=12&inf_contact_key=7d566304b4bb49a32015738d21265a26680f8914173f9191b1c0223e68310bb1