10 summer 2024 10 summer 2024 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Ordinary cycle Stephen Wood Ordinary cycle Staying in Oamaru after attending a cycle event at the Waimate velodrome organised by the Oamaru Ordinary Cycle Club. ©2024 Stephen Wood Up Up 10 summer 2024 , p 15

11 autumn 2025 11 autumn 2025 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Our new Southern Star caravan ©2025 Gary Stoneley Inside. ©2025 Gary Stoneley For us the large U shape seating area, and deep front shelf offered a potential work area, room for all our gadgets. ©2025 Gary Stoneley The Bailey Senator next to the Southern Star. ©2025 Gary Stoneley We settled on a 2nd hand high spec Audi Q7, with electronic air suspension and 3500kg towing capacity. ©2025 Gary Stoneley As soon as we saw the open plan layout and spaciousness of the caravan we got interested. ©2025 Gary Stoneley choosing_5.webp ©2025 Gary Stoneley sales service was a breeze Choosing your next camping vehicle is not always easy Gary Stoneley Camping comes in all forms, from tarpaulins and tents through to large caravans and motorhomes. After close to 30 years of camping, firstly with a NZ-made 1970’s classic caravan (and 4 children) followed by a luxurious UK Bailey Senator, it was a hard choice to get a caravan that would meet our needs. We had to consider budget, how long we intend to keep it for, size, and features. Would the new caravan handle the high usage we demand of it and take the beatings dealt out by some of New Zealand’s roads? Our preference was for another tandem (2 axle) caravan as we have found they seem to handle NZ roads better plus they can take a higher payload. Having worked in the industry with dealers and repairers and being involved in caravan and camping organisations I had seen that all brands of caravans, whether European-, Australian-, NZ- or USA- made could sometimes develop leaks or suffer breakages. Bev and I agreed that the new caravan would need to meet our needs for both business and relaxation and be comfortable enough to sit up and work all day while being able to stretch out without knocking elbows and knees. Being self-sufficient when off-grid, with lots of solar, water and a decent fridge-freezer was a must for us, plus a comfortable bed and large washroom. We expected a lot, but we wanted to get it right. So the long search began. Our large Bailey Senator had done us well for over 13 years and many thousands of miles. Finding caravan number 3 wasn’t an easy job. We considered multiple European and UK Caravans, always well-featured and lighter for towing. We considered multiple Australian caravans, large and heavy, some with slide-outs and some without. The benefit of a slide-out being more living space but often this is countered by difficulty to access areas when the slide-out is in. We like to stop regularly, going shopping, exploring and making a coffee; we are often in tight spaces and fitting into campsites with a slide-out could be an issue for us. For us, a slide-out was not an option. So it was time to explore caravan yards, motorhome shows and check out other people’s homes on wheels. Bev and I were up at Thames for the Steam Punk Festival with the All Points Camping Club when we decided we would pop along to Tauranga and again go caravan hunting. We decided to pop into Country RV at Tauranga. In 15 minutes our decision was made. Country RV in Tauranga are the North Island agent for Leisureline and Southern Star Caravans. Both are built in the Leisureline factory in Hamilton, along with Zephyr caravans and the factory has been building quality caravans since 1973, more than 30 years, and one of the few NZ caravan builders remaining. It’s a nice feeling to buy NZ-made but it was the quality fit-out and construction that sold us on the Southern Star. We had to step up quite high to get into the caravans in the showroom and access may be an issue for some people, but as soon as we saw the open plan layout and spaciousness of the caravan we got interested. For us the large U shape seating area, and deep front shelf offered a potential work area, room for all our gadgets. The cabinetry is finished to a very high standard. With lots of power points plus 12volt and usb outlets throughout the van, charging and running multiple devices wouldn’t be a problem. Backed up by 880 Watts of solar and 200 Amp-hour lithium batteries, the caravan would be good to go even on the cloudiest days. Our preference was for an SUV rather than a ute for towing and we settled on a 2nd hand high spec Audi Q7, with electronic air suspension and 3500kg towing capacity. Once the caravan is connected to the car, the car automatically adjusts the car’s ride height (which we can also adjust as needed). The remote electric brakes and rear camera make towing a breeze and the old-school leaf springs keep the van tracking well. The sales service with Country RV in Mt Maungaui (Tauranga) was a breeze and we were able to make some changes to the layout to meet our needs. Currently we are using the new caravan every second weekend and can’t wait to take longer trips in a few months time. North to South, East to West we intend to give the caravan a hard workout and have every confidence it will handle it. Some of the features of our Southern Star caravan: • 880W solar panels, that will still charge in part sunlight. • Hard-wired 2000W inverter, power to all points. • 2 x 100Ah lithium LiFePO4 batteries. • Victron charger, controller and smart shunt • Dometic 188L compressor fridge that runs continuously. • Automatic satellite dish. • 2 smart TV’s. • Autoterm diesel heater. • Wireless reversing camera. • 172 litres fresh and waste water. Both the Leisureline and Southern Star branded caravans are very similar. We liked the deep front locker with slide out gas bottles that make them easy to fit and turn on and off. Queen-sized bed, large shower, heated towel rail. At our age being comfortable is important and the NZ-built Southern Star caravan was our choice and the price was competitive. There are many other well-made, terrific caravans out there to suit peoples’ different camping and travelling needs. It’s definitely worth checking them out to choose the one that best meets your needs. Safe travels. Up Up 11 autumn 2025 , p 16

10 summer 2024 10 summer 2024 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption giving new life to portable toilets Revolutionizing Kiwi camping with Fix’n’Rail Mustafa Pasha Kiwi Camping Culture Meets Innovation Camping is an iconic part of New Zealand’s lifestyle— a cherished time for reconnecting with nature, spending nights under starry skies, and exploring the rugged beauty of Aotearoa. However, as the Kiwi camping community grows, so does the challenge of balancing outdoor enjoyment with regulations and environmental sustainability. Fix’n’Rail, an inventive new solution developed right here in New Zealand, is designed to make portable toilet systems easier, safer, and legal. What is Fix’n’Rail? a simple solution with big impact Approved by NZ Lifestyle Camping, this innovation helps those looking to upgrade to meet New Zealand’s new self-containment regulations for freedom camping, that require that campervan toilets are permanently fixed. The Fix’n’Rail bracket gives campers a way to secure their existing portable toilet in place. The portable toilets that are supported by this device are: Rocktrail, 145, 365, 165 Dometic, Seaflo, and Burnsco. Durable, lightweight, and easy to install Crafted from resilient materials, the Fix’n’Rail bracket is lightweight, durable, and designed for easy installation. Simply mount it in your chosen space, snap in your portable toilet, and you’re ready for the open road! This ease of use means that seasoned campers, as well as newcomers, can install it without hassle or professional help, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead. Sustainability and the circular economy The design behind Fix’n’Rail supports a circular economy by giving new life to portable toilets that may otherwise end up in landfills. Rather than purchasing new equipment to comply with regulations, campers can use Fix’n’Rail to repurpose their current toilet, reducing waste and conserving resources. It’s a small step that contributes to a larger movement of eco-conscious camping. Where to get Fix’n’Rail Available directly from MystEnterprise.com ( ckw.nz/fix-n-rail ), the first batches land in NZ in December. Final thoughts Fix’n’Rail is more than just a product— it’s a movement towards sustainable camping practices that allow Kiwis to experience the best of New Zealand’s landscapes while preserving their natural beauty for generations to come. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time vanlifer, Fix’n’Rail brings you closer to a sustainable camping lifestyle that doesn’t compromise on comfort or convenience. So, if you’re looking to step up your eco-conscious camping game, Fix’n’Rail is here to help— one secure toilet at a time! ◊ Up Up 10 summer 2024 , p 12

2 Summer 2022 2 Summer 2022 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Never wipe them dry and especially do not polish them TIP: Solar panel cleaning Collyn Rivers Except in rainy areas solar panels need cleaning from time to time. Use a tiny amount of washing up detergent, a cloth and warm, clean water. Rinse, using a trace of detergent in otherwise clean water. Let solar modules dry naturally. Never wipe them dry and especially do not polish them. Doing either builds up an electrostatic charge that attracts dust. A trace of detergent in the rinsing water acts and an effective anti-static barrier. Up Up 2 Summer 2022 , p 23

10 summer 2024 10 summer 2024 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption what is out there What is out there Tony Kissel It’s amazing what is out there to be seen when you are tucked up in bed. ◊ ©2024 Tony Kissell Up Up 10 summer 2024 , p 15

9 Spring 2024 9 Spring 2024 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Parua Bay PHOTO: Brendan-Pol Parua Bay PHOTO: Kyn Darrah Parua Bay Parua Bay PHOTO: Priscilla-Wickenden Parua Bay PHOTO: Brendan-Pol STOP and STAY Parua Bay: stop and stay Stop and Stay Parua Bay Whangarei Heads Road, Whangarei Beachside reserve with large flat grassy area and a boat ramp. You must park in the designated site that is indicated by signage. ■ Who: Tents, caravans, motorhomes, vans; non-self-contained allowed. ■ If the site is full, you must move on. ■ Dogs allowed. ■ 3 nights max. ■ facilities: Toilets, vehicles up to 10m. ■ activities: Swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, walking. ◼️ Up Up 9 Spring 2024 , p 35

2 Summer 2022 Summer 2022 ISSUE 2 CONTENTS PDF BUY Up Nokomai station Dallas Hibbs Up Nokomai station on the way to Queenstown. We went there as kids; now we take our kids there. © 2022 Dallas Hibbs Up Up 1/1

1 Spring 2022 The Harris Range Up Glenn Kidd Our campsite, and the critter pleased to make it there. We made the summit by 7.30pm and back to camp by 9pm. What a sunset from 2480m up. Photos ©2022 Glenn Kidd Up Up Up Spring 2022 ISSUE 1 BUY PDF CONTENTS What a sunset from 2480m up. ©2022 Glenn Kidd What a sunset from 2480m up. Photos ©2022 Glenn Kidd The Harris Range, our campsite. ©2022 Glenn Kidd The Harris Range Our campsite, and the critter pleased to make it there. We made the summit by 7.30pm and back to camp by 9pm. ©2022 Glenn Kidd What a sunset from 2480m up. ©2022 Glenn Kidd What a sunset from 2480m up. Photos ©2022 Glenn Kidd 1/2

Camping events this summer. Summer 2023 ISSUE 6 BUY PDF CONTENTS Up EVENTS — Camping Up Editor Join up with others and go camping. Oxford Pre-xmas Farm Stay 8–10 Dec, Fri, Oxford, Nth Canterbury Run away with us. Avoid the Christmas shopping a little longer (or see if the Oxford Farmers Market will fill out your list). Children and pets welcome. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/oxford-xmas | ckw.nz/oxford-rsvp Pre Christmas Fun 8–10 Dec , Fri, Arapuni, Sth Waikato Relax before the craziness of Xmas. Kayaking, swimming, bush walks, cycling, glow worms, campfires and more. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/arapuni-camp   |   ckw.nz/arapuni-rsvp Christmas/New Year in the Park 24 Dec–2 Ja n, Motukarara, Canterbury Come for a cuppa, a day, a night, relax for a week at Waihora Domain! All welcome. Water, toilets, playground, rail trail, horse racing 29th. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/motukarara-xmas | ckw.nz/motukarara-rsvp Whanganui Vintage Weekend camp 19–22 January , Fri, Wanganui, Region Markets, vintage car display, bands and other events. Camp in the city. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/vintage23-camp | ckw.nz/vintage23-rsvp Waimate Getaway! 26–28 Jan , Fri, Waimate, Sth Canterbury Join us at this hidden jewel, Knottingley Park & Arboretum. Pet friendly. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/waimate-getaway | ckw.nz/waimate-rsvp Camp at Morison’s Bush 2–6 Feb , Fri, Martinborough, South Wairarapa Camp under manukau trees by the Ruamahanga river for Waitangi weekend. Swimming, fishing, visit the Martinborough Fair. Dogs on leads. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/morisons-feb23 | ckw.nz/morisons23-rsvp Campfest 2024 9–11 Feb , Fri, Bulls, Rangitikei An incred-i-bull family venue: join us for a fun camping weekend with a market, walking distance to shops and cafes. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/campfest-24 | ckw.nz/campfest-24-rsvp Marlborough Wine and Food Festival Camp 9–12 Feb , Fri, Waihopai Valley, Marlborough Camp the weekend and visit the biennial wine and food festival on Saturday, just a 15 min drive away. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/waihopai-camp | ckw.nz/waihopai-rsvp A weekend at Orton Bradley Park 23–25 Feb , Fri, Charteris Bay, Canterbury Cast a line, have a round of golf or tennis or just relax at Charteris Bay, at the lovely Orton Bradley Park. No pets. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/orton-feb23ckw.nz/orton-feb23-rsvp Mount Somers in Summer 22–24 March , Mt Somers, Canterbury Explore this picturesque region from the Holiday Park. Dogs on leads. All Points Camping Club. ckw.nz/mtsomers-mar23ckw.nz/mtsomers-mar23-rsvp For more camps keep an eye on l allpointscampingnz.org/events l ckw.nz/nzfunadventures-events (FB) Up Up event-morisons-grahamleslie_mw.webp event-motukarara_mw.webp event-whanganui_mw.webp event-morisons-grahamleslie_mw.webp 1/11

12 Winter 2025 ISSUE 12 BUY PDF ToC Click on image for full view and caption things_H_weka-pass-tony-knights-2018.webp GO TO Chilly chilly chilly out there Do you have a story to share ? Things that go bump in the night Marty Ireland When we camp up, especially at a site we are unfamiliar with, night time sounds are sometimes carried and seem louder and closer than they actually are. This is experienced for example at Kekerungu on the east coast, north of Kaikōura as it is close to the sea and to train tracks as well. If this is not a regular situation for you then the sea can sound extremely rough and the reaction is to pop out to check awnings, guy ropes, chairs and so forth in case they may be blown away in the wind, when in fact it’s just normal. The train may sound as if it’s going to come right through your van at night, but if it happens during the daytime its just fine. Being near or under pine trees gives a sound and a feeling of a lot of wind as well. Two instances of things that go bump that we experienced, was a strong wind that just sprang up and went a bit like a whirlwind and lifted a simple awning in a slide rail with typical awning poles and guy ropes. The whole awning just lifted up, pulling the poles and ropes and leaving it a little worse for wear and a small project to reinstate. A more comical situation was hearing a grating noise outside, several times briefly, but on checking finding nothing. Then the 3rd or 4th time, with a careful watch in place, a moving bump under the ground floor sheet was noted, coming from under the van heading to the outside and finally a hedgehog emerged satisfying our natural curiosity as to what it was. Another camper recently told of a rat that was sitting on the towbar staring at them thru the front window, and of course wekas will pop into awnings, as will a feral cat or a stray dog. What has been your night-time camping experience? Do you have a story to share ? 🏕️ Doctored image; original photo by Tony Knights, Weka Pass Railway, 2018. Up Up 12 Winter 2025 , p 17

12 Winter 2025 ISSUE 12 BUY PDF ToC Click on image for full view and caption campfest_H_archery-Stance.jpg GO TO Chilly chilly chilly out there Let’s show the North how it’s done! Campfest is coming to the South Island! Linda Butler Let’s show the North how it’s done! Campfest South Island 2025 November 14-16 Woodbury Domain 538 Woodbury Road Woodbury (near Geraldine) Adults $35 / $30 All Points Camping Club members $30 15 and under free A weekend of socializing and family entertainment Tents, cars, caravans, motorhomes, buses. There is room for you all. We kick it off with a shared tea on Friday night. Saturday the hall committee will make burgers for tea. Menu and prices to come. MAKE A KITE An opportunity to make a Kite with our well known Kite Lady. Free. HAVE A GO The Geraldine Archery Club are willing to do a tuition on Archery. $25 per person, limited to 16 people Anyone who misses out is welcome to go to their club rooms the next day. More on that at camp. Music at the North Island CampFest ENTERTAINMENT There will be entertainment on Saturday night. Not your thing? That’s ok cos we need cheerleaders. Especially for the horse racing… BUY / SELL SWAP MEET Saturday: sort your preloved camping excess to sell. Swap table for BOOKS . Register now. info@campfestnz.org Enquiries to: info@campfestnz.org campfestnz.org Up Up 12 Winter 2025 , p 31

11 autumn 2025 Autumn 2025 ISSUE 11 BUY PDF ToC Click on image for full view and caption Red lights at night ©2025 Andrew Morton GO TO Here & there last summer Always brings a smile & laugh The red lights? Andrew Morton I thought ‘I must have one of those’, so Retrocampers added a stripe of LED lights when building the teardrop. My wife thought I was nuts! I assured her the orange colour would repel mozzies (not sure about that) but she loves seeing the photos now & calls it my fairy grotto. It’s like having the glow of a camp fire, without the fire risk. A party for one! Always brings a smile & laugh to my mates’ faces when they see them. March ’24 ©2025 Andrew Morton Up Up 11 Autumn 2025 , p 11