I am thinking of getting a motorhome and doing the grey nomad thing but I am unsure of the costs and culture. looking at a mid 90's Ford trader 3 or 4 berth. There are 2 of us in our 60's. Are there a plethoria of compliances! Running costs! Grey nomad culture! etc. The aim is to see NZ before the kids stick us in an oldfolks home. Your advice would be appreciated.
nightboss,
Jun 27, 3:38pm
Do it!
There are plenty of magazines available that have good answers to all you ask and more.
As my Mum used to say "Eat your cake while you still have your teeth."
thejazzpianoma,
Jun 27, 3:58pm
Do it!
Also. Check out these guys and join up. So many cheap/free places for members to stay, group discounts on fuel, parts etc. http://www.nzmca.org.nz/
With regard to the trader. Try and get something a bit newer with a common rail engine. 90's Diesels are noisy, uncomfortable and slow. Better to have a slightly smaller van than a horribly old slow thing. remember this is supposed to be fun not a chore. Just don't get a Transit, they are not up to snuff and if you get a 90's non-common rail one they are absolutely awful rust buckets.
My pic on the value front in a decent van is the Fiat Ducato, go and drive one with a common rail engine and feel the difference. They are also economical as well, depending on the engine and kit out you should be looking from just 8l/100km which helps a lot.
Aside from the Fiat, Mercedes, VW, Renault etc are also good. Pretty much if its from Europe and not a Ford its probably good.
splodge6,
Jun 27, 4:48pm
thanks, just been on the nzmca site for a quick look. It has a lot of relevant information. those vans look pretty good. Now to convince the trouble and strife and bank manager.
thejazzpianoma,
Jun 27, 4:52pm
Just take her for a ride in both and it will be easy. Likewise maintenance and running costs are about half or less with a common rail diesel so should be easy to sell that too. You don't need to spend a fortune, early 2000's models are sometimes quite O.K.
kazbanz,
Jun 29, 8:07am
Splodge could I suggest you rent a van for a week or two. The thing is some people take to it well others just can't stand being cooped up in a "little shack on wheels" I applaud your thinking and my parents are part time nomads. They have a Hiace van and about 6 months in the year travel around this great country.
sr2,
Jun 29, 8:17am
Very good advice, it pays to try before you buy.
fryan1962,
Jun 29, 8:20am
my friends are in there 80s they have a self contained one it is 1987, in good condition, he wants under 20k for it I think, they have used it a bit
fryan1962,
Jun 29, 8:22am
Before that they had a yacht wife did not like so they never used it, they go away with other friends they have met,Through motor home group
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