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

Most of you will be familiar with our Pilote Pacific P740 and Galaxy G740 range, however we also import a limited number of smaller versatile Pacific vehicles with a large bathroom to suit customers who prefer a shorter motorhome with plenty of space.

This month I am introducing you to the P696D model and can't wait to hear what you think!!!

Tip: For me deciding whether the P696D is the vehicle for you simply comes down to the decision if a large drop-down bed works for you. If you conclude that it will, the motorhome offers you incredible space throughout whilst being easy to handle and short. If the answer is no, this model simply won't work for you.

However, I would not ignore it until you have a closer look...

Compact and practical, it gives you the privacy and freedom you need for your duo adventures. Enjoy an interior space optimised for maximum comfort, with a fully equipped kitchen and a functional bathroom. Set off to
discover new horizons hand in hand, creating unforgettable memories in this nomadic cocoon designed especially for the two of you.

Click on the link below to view further details...

https://www.deluxegroup.co.nz/Detail.html?id=2567606&dealerid=1177&pageNumber=1&sort=1&pageSize=12

​This compact low-profile measures 6.99m and has been designed to meet the needs of tourers looking for large interiors. A clever floorplan gives an XXL interior featuring a maxi-lounge, a maxi- sleeping area, a large kitchen with a generously-sized fridge, a large bathroom and changing area as well as a large hold.

The outside

​You will love its dynamic, modern look. At the rear, the large hold can be accessed from either side and is low enough to make it easy to load and unload your belongings. An unusual feature is that the garage takes up the full height of the vehicle on the passenger side. Perfect for storing skis, fishing rods or surfboards. The separate storage hold allows you to store your belongings safely. The doors are equipped with double compression latches which provide an air- and water- tight seal.

The kitchen

​The kitchen has large windows, making it feel light and airy and is also fitted with plenty of lights. It boasts a very practical worktop, lots of storage and a large fridge with a capacity of 160 L as well as a three-burner hob, making cooking easy.

The lounge

​There is also an electric drop-down bed sleeping 2 adults. In the lounge, you can add a make-up that can accommodate 2 children or 1 adult. It's a perfect vehicle for a family road trip.

The bedroom

​The sleeping area consists of an XXL drop-down bed measuring 160 x 200 cm, which lowers to 80 cm above the floor for step-free access. There is a convertible bed in the lounge which sleeps two, enabling the P696D to be registered to carry 4 passengers.

The bathroom

​At the rear, there is a wall-to-wall bathroom with a separate shower as well as a skylight, allowing in plenty of light. It also features a huge changing area with wardrobe, drawers and direct access to the garage

Last week I handed over the Mercedes-Benz DCB Lincoln Motorhome to the very first proud new owner John. Steve and the team at Design Coach and Body have truly done a remarkable job building a high quality 2 berth motorhome based on the Mercedes-Benz platform ticking all the boxes for John.

The Lincoln is a very exclusive motorhome and if you want to get your hands on the next one, please feel free to contact us directly to discuss options. DCB is aiming to start building the next Lincoln towards the second half of 2024 using a 4x4 Mercedes platform and are happy to discuss custom options if the vehicle is purchased before the project commences.

Tip: Don't forget to click on the link below and check out NZMCD's review of the vehicle...

https://nzmcd.co.nz/reviews/motorhomes/review-dcb-lincoln/

The Truma Combi Heating System is arguably the most fitted habitation and hot water heating system in RV's and most motorhome and caravan owners will come across having to use it.

Check out our "How To" operational video below and refresh your memory if you are new to the system or have not used it much throughout summer.

https://www.deluxegroup.co.nz/user-manuals-and-operational-videos.html

Marlborough is a beautiful spot and living in Blenheim is great. However, when people visit or travel through our small town, many customers find it hard to decide what to do as most places are scattered around the countryside and not always heavily advertised.

Last month I started a small segment introducing Local Hotspots to you and I have decided to continue sharing them for the rest of 2024. I will also try to get out there myself visiting and enjoying the places as well as motivating you to visit one new place every time you travel through.

​Please feel free to send me any suggestions you may have, and I will check it out!!!

This month I would like to introduce you to one of my favourite spots for a great lunch or dinner. The Harvest restaurant is part of a boutique hotel neatly tucked away in the countryside near Blenheim and produces great food using local produce paired with some amazing wine.

Poppy and I have an emotional connection to the place as we were fortunate enough to celebrate our wedding at the venue and absolutely love visiting the restaurant.

My opinion is that the restaurant produces amazing food for a reasonable price showcasing the amazing produce and wine the region has on offer paired with a stunning secluded yet accessible location. It’s well worth a visit and I can only
highly recommend Harvest to anyone who appreciates good food, wine, and service.

Tip: You do not have to stay at the Hotel to enjoy the restaurant.

"The Marlborough - a Boutique Hotel located in the heart of the famous Marlborough wine region. Nestled within 16 acres of exotic, native and vegetable gardens and surrounded by our boutique vineyard with our awarded Harvest restaurant all onsite."

"Our ethos is simple - authenticity...

We aim to create a space that celebrates authentic hospitality where we encourage our guests to relax, enjoy and have your every need anticipated. All aspects of the restaurant is guided by this philosophy, creating a place where our guests are genuinely welcomed and fare welled as friends.

Relax in one of the two stunning interior dining rooms our wine tasting room or our Orangery that runs onto the garden deck where you enjoy the Marlborough sun whilst enjoying the gastronomy on offer.

Alternatively, you may wish to find a shady spot in the beautiful gardens or vineyard with a small bite and refreshing beverage.

No matter the occasion, at Harvest we aim to create an atmosphere and experience that reminds diners of the true meaning of hospitality.

Come and join us for lunch, aperitivo or dinner and experience our ethos for yourself."​

Travelling 3-4 hours south of the Bay of Plenty you will reach our final great weekend destination for this segment, Hawkes Bay.

​Another spot I have not had the opportunity to explore beyond a quick visit and have heard many great travel stories about. If you are based in the central North Island, Wellington or the Bay of Plenty, the region is nearby and suits a quick weekend trip. Enjoy the read!!!

"Blessed with fertile soils and a warm, temperate climate, Hawke’s Bay is among New Zealand’s leading producers of wine; notably red wines – cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah – and stunning chardonnays.

Hawke’s Bay is the first stop on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail, and is a popular place for bicycle wine tours with many of the region’s 30+ cellar doors, and numerous artisan producers, connected by 200km of flat, easy riding cycle trails.

Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, with the cities of Napier and Hastings rebuilt in the architectural styles of the time following the devastating 1931 earthquake. Year-round guided tours and vintage car rides are supercharged each February as tens of thousands flock to participate in the week-long Art Deco Festival.

​Notable landmarks include Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland colony of gannets; Lake Waikaremoana, where the walking track is among New Zealand’s nine Great Walks; and Te Mata Peak, with its 360 degree views of Hawke’s Bay and spectacular walking tracks.

Often likened to Bordeaux in France, Hawke's Bay is famed for its full-bodied red wines.

​Hire a bike and taste your way around some of the region's 72 vineyards and 30 cellar doors, including the award-winning Te Mata Estate Winery and Craggy Range. Stop for lunch at Church Road Winery or Mission Estate, New Zealand's oldest winery.

​When a devastating earthquake destroyed Napier in 1931, the city was rebuilt in the style of the times - Art Deco. Relive the opulent era of jazz, boaters and beads at the annual Art Deco Festival or take a guided tour of the spectacular architecture in a vintage car.

Hawke's Bay Trails combine more than 200 kilometres of tracks that are helpfully split into themes. Choose from the established wineries, landscapes or water trails or forge your own path. You can visit all of Hawke's Bay's attractions by bike - cycle by the seaside, venture to the vineyards or explore the countryside. With flat, easy trails for all levels, it's the best way to experience the stunning region."

Click on the link below to continue reading the full article...

https://www.newzealand.com/nz/feature/top-experiences-in-hawkes-bay/

​Gary and Janette ventured south to Timaru to watch the truck racing and slowly made their way back up the East coast of the South Island travelling in a Le Voyageur Heritage motorhome. 

Most of our brand-new European motorhomes are built on a Fiat base vehicle and the latest cab has been upgraded with many new features. 

​Check out the video below and refresh your knowledge on how to operate the basic systems. 

Over the last couple of years, I mentioned Lake Argyle and the Hydro Canal near Blenheim in various articles as a great location to park up for a night or two, fish for trout and enjoy the surroundings. 

Last weekend I finally managed to venture deep into the Branch River Valley and can only recommend the trip if you are in the area. The location is accessible with a 4wd or a mountain bike.

Tip: Check if the road is open to the public before embarking on your journey as there has been increased logging activity in the area and some parts can be closed off during the week. 

​http://nzwalksinfo.co.nz/tracks/2114-branch-river-track

Above: Greigs Hut marks the end of the road access and the start of the Branch River Hike. 

​A 30-45 min drive from the lake you will reach Greigs Hut. The well-maintained cabin marks the end of the road access and the start of the Branch River Hike. I parked the car, packed my backpack and fly-rod, and started walking for around 8km before I started fishing.

​The hiking trail was reasonably easy to walk and my anticipation of fishing the canyon like river parts of the upper branch was high and I made it to the planned starting point quick. 

River conditions were perfect, the trout started eating late morning and I managed to net a couple of beauties within a few hours of exploring. 

Note: Parts of the river are not easily accessible, and I would strongly suggest a cautious approach as well as taking the right equipment. ​

​Feel free to ask if you have any questions regarding the trip. It's well worth the effort and can be planned as a day or multi-day trip. 

Located about 3 hours southeast of Auckland, the Bay of Plenty is another great weekend destination especially for those living in the upper part of the north island. 
​
I have visited the area a few times as my little sister lives in Mount Maunganui and have always enjoyed my trips. However, I am really looking forward to taking the motorhome to the bay for an extended trip and explore a little further.

Hike Tauranga’s iconic Mount Maunganui

​It wouldn’t be a trip to Tauranga without taking on the Mount Maunganui walk. An activity to add to your list of must-dos in Tauranga, it’s the Bay of Plenty’s most iconic landmark. Enjoy 360-degree panoramic views from the top, and on a clear day, visitors can see the Coromandel peninsula in the North.

​https://www.newzealand.com/int/mount-maunganui/

Book a marine wildlife tour

Explore Tauranga’s big blue backyard with Bay Explorer or Dolphin Seafaris. The sun-kissed coastline of the Bay of Plenty is frequented by dolphins, whales and orcas, and plenty of other sea life. Learn from passionate locals about the unique aquatic world that lies just off the coast.

​https://www.newzealand.com/int/plan/business/dolphin-seafaris-nz-ltd-1/

Paddle your way around Tauranga's coastline

Book a tour or hire your own kayak and explore the coastline and inner bays of the region. KG Kayaks, East Coast Paddler, and Waimarino all offer unforgettable paddling adventures – from evening glow worm tours and SUP lessons around Mount Maunganui, to coastal adventures in the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

​https://www.newzealand.com/int/plan/business/kg-kayaks-1/

Treat yourself to a scenic helicopter flight

​For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, book a scenic flight with the crew at Adventure Helicopters. Let them fly you over some of the most stunning areas of the Bay of Plenty, or for something really special, book one of their food and wine or fly and drive packages.

https://www.newzealand.com/int/plan/business/bay-explorer-1/

We often share recipes suited to the RV lifestyle and easy to make on the road. However, Matt's secret duck parfait recipe is one to cook at home and take away with you, complementing cheese platters or by itself with some fresh bread bought at the local bakery.

​For those who don't know Matt used to be a chef so it’s well worth trying it and letting us know what you think. It may also be quite a challenge if you are not used to making parfaits and will be fun to try. Enjoy!!!

Duck Liver Parfait is something special that can be made prior to your next trip away and taken on the road with you. The recipe involves a little bit of work and requires some precision. However, it's well worth the effort.

I used this recipe during my time as a chef and served the parfait at Highfield Winery Restaurant between 2009-2011 here in Blenheim.

The recipe produces 1kg however you could reduce this to 500g if required. It's also suitable to freeze if you don’t want to eat it all in one go. Alternatively, you could also use chicken livers if duck is not available.

For best results I certainly recommend using duck liver, take your time, enjoy, serve with your chutney of choice, crackers, or sour dough bread.

Ingredients

• 300ml Red Wine
• 300ml Port
• 1kg Duck Livers at room temperature (this is important as the mixture may split if they are cold)
• 2tsp Ground Juniper
• 8 Egg Yolks
• 4 Eggs
• 500g Block Butter
• Few Sprigs of fresh Thyme
• 3 Dry Bay Leaves
• 1 Star Anise
• 3 Glove’s Garlic
• 1 good sized pinch of Salt
• 1 good pinch of white Pepper

Method

1. Reduce the wine, port, juniper with the thyme, bay leaves and star anise in a saucepan to 200ml.

2. Strain and measure the amount, if you have over reduced just add cream to make up the difference, if under reduced return to the heat and continue the reduction, make sure it measures exactly 200ml though.

3. Place the garlic in a blender and blitz, add the Livers and blitz, whilst the motor is running add the warm melted butter, be sure to add the whole amount of melted mixture including the white stuff at the end as this is the gee or salt in the butter itself, then add the eggs and yolks one at a time, season to finish.

4.Pass the mixture through a sieve to remove any of the livers sinew, this is also important.

5. Pre Heat the oven to 160°C on fan bake or steam bake if you have that function.

6. Either line a suitable sized terrine/loaf type baking tin with glad wrap making sure it sits nicely around the edges or use individual ramekin type baking dishes (the ramekins do not need lining) or alternatively take muffin tins and line them with glad wrap to make individual portions. The last option is how I used to serve them.


7. Take whatever you have chosen to bake the mixture in and place them in a high sided oven tray, fill with the parfait mixture to about ¾ full, then pour enough warm water into the tray to sit halfway up the baking dish to help steam the mixture, cover with foil.

8. From here the process gets a little bit tricky. You want to cook the mixture to soufflé with a slight bounce, over cooking it will result in the parfait bubbling up and becoming coarse. Under cooking it the mixture will not set correctly so keep an eye on it.

9. Check after 15 minutes if you are using ramekins or the muffin tins or 25 minutes if you are using a terrine mould.

10. Re-check every 5 minutes after that, the ramekins or muffin tins should take est. 20-25 minutes. A loaf type tin may take 35-40 minutes. The exact cooking time depends on your oven and it's better to keep checking the parfait than over cooking it.

​11. Once cooked remove from the oven tray and set aside, cool, then place in the refrigerator.

Matt and his family started the year right holidaying next to the beach in Kaiteriteri. The staff motorhome has been used a lot during the holiday season and it's great to see staff and their families making the most of the opportunity.

After all, memories made on the road travelling in an RV are always special and seem to last a long time.

​The Tasman region has plenty to offer and is well suited for a casual summer beach holiday.

Energy systems in motorhomes and caravans continue to be a much-discussed topic in the industry. Regardless of how much solar and whether you are choosing AGM or Lithium batteries, a good way of eliminating the guesswork is to fit a battery monitor.

The device allows you to check on many different aspects of your system and creates a quick and easy way to see your current battery charge.

Check out the video and let us know if you have any questions!!!

​https://youtu.be/062T4tEk7zM