8 Winter 2024 8 Winter 2024 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption carbonMon-GasFlameH.webp The problem is that RV owners are not taking risks sufficiently seriously Carbon Monoxide poisoning Collyn Rivers There are severe risks of carbon monoxide poisoning if you misuse LP gas in a caravan, motorhome, or any type of tent or annexe. Moreover, there is a significant risk of brain damage at low levels of carbon monoxide. The first domestically available gas (around 1850) was produced by burning coal. This was often in an inadequate level of air. The consequent 10% or so carbon monoxide content was often lethal. Carbon monoxide’s danger became quickly known and respected. Propane was generally accepted in the 1930s. LP gas was later used in RVs, and natural gas in homes. Nevertheless, many users remained unaware of the still-existing risks. LP gas and natural gas are both safer. But only by having lower levels of carbon monoxide. Furthermore, they take longer to kill. Nevertheless, approximately 30% of people with severe carbon monoxide poisoning are still likely to die 1 . During 2001–2002, carbon monoxide poisoning was responsible for 43.9% of accidental deaths in New Zealand 2 . The report noted that imported LP gas portable appliances, certified only for outdoor use, were being claimed as suitable for use indoors. Furthermore, it warned that misusing such appliances indoors, including caravans and tents, is unsafe and potentially fatal. Inhaling even relatively small amounts of the gas can lead to hypoxic injury, neurological damage and even death 3 . Carbon monoxide exposure might lead to a significantly shorter life span due to heart damage 4 . Exposures at 100 ppm (parts per million) can be dangerous to human health 5 . Carbon monoxide poisoning is the most common cause of injury and death due to poisoning worldwide 6 . (Toxic gases are measured in parts per million (ppm) 1% volume = 10,000 ppm). Ongoing user denial In 2012 user denial came to a head. Three men died in a matter related to carbon monoxide poisoning, in a caravan in Tasmania. Despite no Coroner’s report yet published, many posts appeared on caravan forums. They denied the cause of the deaths — yet came from people with no possible knowledge of what had occurred. Such denial still exists. Government response Consequent to those deaths, the federal government established a ‘Gas Appliances (Carbon Monoxide) Safety Strategy’. Its purpose was to make people (particularly RV users) aware of the risks. The Caravan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) asked me to assist in preparing a formal government submission. My report noted that: ‘the existing regulations relating to gas installation in RVs do not necessarily need changing. The problem is that RV owners are not taking risks sufficiently seriously’. Furthermore, it noted ‘The major risk identified (in our opinion) is that of gas appliances being used in an inappropriate manner.’ ‘For example, LP gas ovens left on with the door open to provide heat. Cast iron or steel plates and ceramic pots placed over LP gas rings for the same purpose.’ The report furthermore alluded to the ongoing illegal use of LP gas catalytic heaters ‘in poorly ventilated annexes and within the RV itself.’ My report included that, ‘A further issue is the lack of quantitative data on reported incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning in RVs. This has created concern because the warnings of the dangers are frequently met by denial. People argue (wrongly) no hard data exists.’ In 2010 New Zealand Energy Safety commissioned an independent report. The report found there was not a sufficient safety problem to introduce a ban. It did, however, advise to place additional health and safety warnings on LP gas units. The cause of the risk LP-gas (and fossil fuels generally) require a great deal of air to burn safely. Burning LP gas in an enclosed space decreases oxygen, and increases carbon dioxide, within that space. Furthermore, the amount of air required varies with the nature of the gas. If you (illegally) run propane appliances from Autogas, that gas may contain butane. If it does, it will produce carbon monoxide through incomplete combustion. A total giveaway is a yellow content in the flame. This flame (right) is borderline safe. Ideally, it should be blue. As total burning cannot be guaranteed, space heating in Australia requires the burning process to be external to the space heated. Moreover, this policy is now being followed in many other countries. Australian Standards The above is made clear in AS/NZS AS5601 . As with its earlier version, and its predecessor, ( AG 601-1995 ), the appropriate wording states:‘The following appliances shall not be installed in a caravan * :(c) a space heater, other than a room-sealed type. * (AS 5601 defines a caravan as ‘a structure that is or was designed or intended to move from one place to another, whether towed or transported, which is intended for human habitation… and includes a self-propelled recreational vehicle.’) Item 6.9.4 of the new Code calls for a permanently legible label. The label must have a minimum character height of 4.0 mm. It must be affixed ‘in a conspicuous position on or adjacent to, the ‘[gas cooking]’ appliance. It shall provide at least the following information: WARNING Ensure ventilation when the cooker is in use. Do not use for space heating. Quantifying the risk Even low levels of carbon monoxide should be avoided. The World Health Organisation lists 5–20 ppm (parts per million) as impairing performance. It warns decrease exercise time, and be vigilant. The International Mechanical Code limits 25 ppm as the maximum in parking garages. Kurt (1978) reports 27 ppm as associated with a 21% increase in cardio-respiratory complaints. The World Health Organisation reports 30 ppm as the earliest onset of exercise-induced angina. At about 35 ppm (parts per million), carbon monoxide starts becoming severe. There are a headache and dizziness within six to eight hours, 200 ppm (about 0.02%) causes a slight headache within two to three hours, plus loss of judgement. Around 800 ppm (0.08%) there is dizziness, nausea, and convulsions within 45 min, insensibility within two hours and death within three hours. At 1600 ppm (still a mere 0.16%), there is ‘headache, tachycardia, dizziness, and nausea within 20 min. Death occurs in less than two hours. Even at 6400 ppm (0.64%) death occurs inside 20 minutes, and at the far from high 12,800 ppm (1.28%), you become unconscious after 2–3 breaths and die in less than three minutes 7 . Typical carbon monoxide levels The natural atmospheric level is about 0.1 ppm. The exhaust from a warm car’s exhaust (that lacks a catalytic converter) is 7000 ppm 8 . USA’s relevant (OHSA) regulations limit long-term workplace exposure levels to less than 50 ppm (0.005%) averaged over 8-hours. Furthermore, employees are to be removed from any confined space if an upper limit (‘ceiling’) of 100 ppm is reached’ 9 . Inadequate or blocked ventilation increases carbon monoxide build-up. Because of this, the risk of brain damage at lower levels of exposure is real. Furthermore, elderly, children and people with heart and respiratory problems are likely to experience the effects sooner. Moreover, (and severely) may heavy smokers. Government organisations set various exposure limits. The American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) lists a maximum allowable short term limit of 9 ppm. The Australian Environmental Protection Agency has set two national health protection standards for CO. A one-hour Time Weighted Average (TWA) of 35 ppm. And an eight-hour TWA of 9 ppm. These standards emphasise that carbon monoxide readings over 9 ppm needs investigating. And action taken. Caravan forum advice that ‘it is only dangerous if you do not stay awake’ shows astonishingly naïve lack of understanding. Gas appliances — defined The use of any gas appliance for direct space heating in a caravan is illegal in every state of Australia. Furthermore, any cooking appliance used for space heating, by any form of burning gas, is defined as a ‘gas appliance’. Many forum posts argue that a ceramic pot or whatever is ‘not an appliance’. These overlook that devices are legally definable in terms of intent — not necessarily of content. A screwdriver may thus be defined as a tool for dealing with screws. Or, in potentially dangerous areas at night, as an offensive weapon. The same reasoning extends to a gas cylinder or a can of petrol. Either, if carried onto a plane, will be designated as a bomb. Ceramic pots A ceramic device placed over a lighted gas stove for space heating is liable to be classified as a direct heating appliance. It is therefore prohibited. Why doing that is dangerous is because the flame becomes trapped within an area where air may not flow freely. As the gas is thus not entirely burned, that device generates carbon monoxide. It may reveal that by burning with a yellowish flame, or forming and depositing soot. The above was confirmed by a Gas Regulator some years ago. When asked if placing a ceramic pot or steel plate over a gas ring, or leaving the door open on a lighted oven, with the intent to heat an interior space, it becomes, by definition a space heater, he responded ‘my bloody oath’! References to local usage are currently (mid-2019) in Australian Standard AS/NZS AS 5601 2013 . An Amendment for LP-gas Installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes was published by Standards Australia in May 2016. A summary called Guide to Gas Installations in Caravans & Mobile Homes (containing all of the above references) is available free from The Office of Gas Safety (or its equivalent in each state). It does, however, relate primarily to the previous Standard. It is also available on the Internet (Google the above title). Related risks Product Safety Australia advises that other common products can and do emit carbon monoxide. These include: Barbeques that burn charcoal, gas or wood Fireplaces that use charcoal, gas or wood Portable cookers that use gas or kerosene Portable and outdoor heaters that use gas or kerosene Electric generators that are diesel or petrol-fuelled Electrical equipment that is diesel or petrol-powered (e.g. blowers, chainsaws, pumps and welders). New Zealand Until 2010 the Gas Standard (AS 5601) related only to Australia primarily because Australia’s LP gas is either propane or mostly propane with a small proportion of butane, while New Zealand uses propane and up to 50% butane. Appliances built to burn one form of LP gas can be hazardous when used to burn another form of LP gas. The Australian Gas Regulators’ view was that (as with using Autogas illegally to replace LP gas) this posed an unacceptable safety risk respectively to New Zealand and Australian consumers. This issue was quickly resolved: including by ‘Australian RV appliances increasingly being certified for use with Universal LPG Gas to accommodate the N.Z. market’: written advice from the N.Z. Office of Energy Safety, 18/09/2012. (This Universal LP gas issue affects only Australian gas appliances made for the N.Z. market). Safe RV heating Germany’s Webasto and Eberspächer companies produce very similar diesel-powered space and space-plus-hot-water power heaters. Truma has a generally similar LP gas powered equivalent. All draw fresh air in from outside and exhaust to the outside. There is also a range of similar units from Diesel Heating Australia. The Eberspächer product in some countries is marketed under the Dometic name, and sold by Dometic. These are the only form of heating recommended for annexes, caravans and motor homes. RV Books’ The Campervan and Motorhome Book covers this in-depth. How to detect carbon monoxide The only way to detect carbon monoxide is via a pocket detector — or for caravans and motorhomes, via a permanently fixed one. They are readily available from virtually all hardware stores. What to do if carbon monoxide is detected Turn off the source of the carbon monoxide — if possible to do without risk of endangering yourself or others. Then move to fresh air. If indoors, move outside to fresh air immediately. If you are outdoors, move as far away as possible from the source of the carbon monoxide. The source is often a petrol or diesel-engined generator or outboard motors. If exhibiting symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning — e.g. headache, dizziness, nausea etc, call the emergency services. Further information The previous AS 5601 Gas Standard has been replaced by a new Standard published (by Standards Australia) in May 2016. That relevant for caravan and motorhomes is Part 2 (Gas Installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes ). Note that, legally, ‘caravans’ includes all RVs. The most significant amendments to Part 2 are: A new diagram for the mounting of an LP gas cylinder in a caravan including clearances from openings into the living space A new requirement for the installation of gas BBQs and radiant gas heaters designed for outdoor use. New pipe-work strength and gas tightness test References (general) Gas Installation Code AS 5601.2013 with an Amendment for LP-gas Installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes. (Published by Standards Australia on 11 May 2016). Report of the (S.A.) Technical Regulator 2005–2006, Annual Report (p.7).Office of Gas Safety (Vic) — Guide to Gas Installations in Caravans & Motorhomes.Similar guides are available from all State gas regulatory bodies. New Zealand (facts and data) Permanent Exemption of LPG appliances from the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangements. (Regulation Impact Statement for Consultation — 2008.) References (papers) 1. Varon J, Marik PE, Fromm RE Jr, Gueler A (1999). “Carbon monoxide poisoning: a review for clinicians”. The Journal of Emergency Medicine 17 (1): 87–93. 2. McDowell R, Fowles J, Phillips D (November “Deaths from poisoning in New Zealand: 2001–2002” . The New Zealand Medical Journal, 2005, Nov; 118. 3. Raub JA, Mathieu-Nolf M, Hampson NB, Thom SR (April 2000). “Carbon monoxide poisoning-a public health perspective”. Toxicology 145 (1): 1-14.4. 4. Henry CR, Satran D, Lindgren B, Adkinson C, Nicholson CI, Henry TD (January 2006). “Myocardial Injury and Long-term Mortality Following Moderate to Severe Carbon Monoxide Poisoning”. 5. Prockop LD, Chichkova RI (Nov 2007). “Carbon monoxide intoxication: an updated review”. Journal of the Neurological Sciences 262 (1–2): 122–130. 6. Thom SR (October 2002). “Hyperbaric-oxygen therapy for acute carbon monoxide poisoning”. The New England Journal of Medicine 347 (14): 1105–1106. 7. Carbon Monoxide: National Academy of Sciences, Washington, D.C., 1977. pp. 29. ISBN 0-309-02631-8. (Free full text. ckw.nz/co ) 8. Struttmann T, Scheerer A, Prince TS, Goldstein LA (Nov 1998). “Unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning from an unlikely source”. The Journal of the American Board of Family Practice 11 (6): 481–484. 9. “OSHA Fact Sheet: Carbon Monoxide”. United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. https://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_General_Facts/carbonmonoxide-factsheet.pdf . Compressed breathing air — the potential for evil from within. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/225301283 n This article is ©2024 RV Books. Website: rvbooks.com.au | this article. RV Books can be contacted at: info@rvbooks.com.au . Collyn Rivers has published 6 books relating to caravans and motorhomes. Information about them & more than 150searchable articles are included on his website: rvbooks.com.au RV Books And A Huge Collection Of Articles By Collyn Rivers RV Books. 6 Books and over 200 articles by Collyn Rivers. Collyn's books are considered to be the best RV, camper trailer and motorhome information available. Up Up 8 Winter 2024 , p 21

11 autumn 2025 11 autumn 2025 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Red lights at night ©2025 Andrew Morton 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

5 Spring 2023 5 Spring 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Issues in making this real Freedom camping under the new law Miriam Richardson There are new penalties and some exemptions There are now fines of $400–1200 for freedom camping or preparing to freedom camp, in the wrong place. The homeless are exempt from most (but not all) of the new penalties. Note 1 Are you homeless, or making a lifestyle choice? The legislators were keen to prevent people who have chosen to live on the road from claiming to be homeless (and exempt), so changed the definition of ‘homeless’ for the purpose of this act. Homeless doesn’t mean not having a home to go to, it means being ‘unable to live in appropriate residential accommodation’, with the definition of ‘residential accommodation’ being revised to include ‘accommodation in a dwelling house, flat, hotel, motel, boarding house, or camping ground’; and, no stone unturned, ‘camping ground’ is redefined to include ‘any site at which a fee is payable for camping’. Unless you are ‘unable’ to live in a motel or camping ground etc, you are not ‘homeless’, and not exempt from this act. Note 2 It is also now an offence if a person makes ‘preparations’ to freedom camp in the wrong place. This is defined as ‘setting up a tent’ or ‘parking a vehicle’ to use to freedom camp. Short term parking, day-trip excursions, and recovering from driver fatigue are not ‘freedom camping’. Note 3 Who gets fined and how they are notified Fines can be levied either on the person accused of doing wrong or the vehicle owner. Further, even if you never actually receive the notice of an offence, you are still liable. Enforcement sends an email and you are ‘served’. Note 4 The law is vague Are you ‘unable’ to stay in this campground? The homeless definition does not define what ‘unable’ means. A motel or camping ground is too far away (what is ‘too far’)? Not enough money to pay (is having 1 night’s worth of dollars for a camp ground enough) (what about night 2)? The camping ground is not open when the person arrives in a town? The law does not define ‘appropriate’ accommodation. Personal circumstances will determine what counts as ‘appropriate’ but does the camper’s judgement count? What counts as ‘preparing’ to freedom camp? Putting out a chair? Drying a tea towel? Using an awning? Everything that is part of camping can also be part of an exempt day-excursion. Councils and enforcement officers Councils are tasked with translating the vague law into working rules for their officers to apply in real life. Is this vehicle: parked, day-tripping, freedom camping or is the driver recovering from driver fatigue? Is this person homeless? Is this person preparing to freedom camp? It so hard (impossible?) to evaluate intentions. If homlessness depends on what is available, then the enforcement officer will need to assess local accomodation in relation to this person and this vehicle. Is local accomodation available, appropriate, affordable for this traveller? Is a local, paid, parking site / camp ground able to take this particular vehicle? Can it take this length of vehicle? Are there parking or driving hazards: is the driveway wide enough without scratching the vehicle, will it fit under the trees (without damaging panels and vents on the roof), are both the driver and vehicle able to negotiate the gate, a bend on the drive? Is the ground firm enough for the weight of this vehicle (at this time of year, in this weather, after tonight’s rain)? Councils will need procedures for responding to alleged offences, as campers and councils work out how to bring the new laws into real life. Notes Note 1 (Section 5, 2a, FCA † ) (FCP † ) Note 2 (Section 5, 3b, FCA † ) Note 3 (Section 20, 2b, FCA † ) (Section 5, 2, FCA † ) Note 4 (Section 27 A, 2, FCA † ) † FCA: Freedom Camping Act 2011 † FCP: Freedom Camping (Penalties for Infringement Offences) Regulations 2023 Up Up 5 Spring 2023 , p 2

6 Summer 2023 6 Summer 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption fire-fenz-logo-64.png fire-blanket_mw.webp Fire safety: Caravans and sleep-outs Fire and Emergency New Zealand Caravans and sleep-outs are great fun, but they also carry a much greater risk of fire than a traditional home. These tips will help keep you safe: Every caravan should be fitted with a long-life photoelectric smoke alarm. Never leave children alone in your caravan. Keep matches and lighters out of their reach. Have a fire extinguisher or fire blanket near the exit and make sure you know how to use it. Always ensure there is adequate ventilation. Lighting and heating Use proper lighting units or torches. Don’t use candles as they may start a fire . Used fixed heaters only. Make sure furniture and fittings are at least 1 meter from any heaters. Oil column heaters or fan heaters with a cut off switch are the safest. Appliances and gas cylinders Check electrical appliances for frayed cords and other damage. Caravans should also have a current Electrical Warrant of Fitness. Caravans and sleep-outs often use gas cylinders to fuel cooking. Make sure you read our tips on using gas cylinders safely to reduce your risk of fire [ see p24 for BBQ tips Ed]. Always ensure there is adequate ventilation when using a gas cylinder in or near a caravans or sleep-out. Smoke alarms Because caravans and sleepouts usually only have one door and few window openings, it’s especially important to make sure you have working smoke alarms installed, and that you’re testing them regularly. Caravans and sleep-outs are often small, so it might be necessary to install a smoke alarm near a cooking area. To avoid false alarms, use the silence feature to put the smoke alarm into a ‘hold’ status when you’re cooking. Press the button before you start cooking to silence the alarm for a pre-set period of time, between 8 and 15 minutes depending on the brand. S ource: ckw.nz/caravans © Fire and Emergency New Zealand. Creative Commons (CC-BY-NC-ND) More: Fire blankets More: Lithium-ion battery safety More: Do you need a permit for your BBQ? (Gas & charcoal) Up Up 6 Summer 2023 , p 14

6 Summer 2023 6 Summer 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption SSTay-Horahor-JENI-CW_mw.webp sstay-horahora1-apc_mw.webp SStay-Horahora_mw_edited.jpg STOP and STAY Horahora Domain Angela Bryan STOP and STAY Horahora Domain has everything any water-sport enthusiast could want. Situated right on the banks of the Waikato River, 2 mins off SH 1 it is the perfect stop whether you’re heading north or south. The only facilities provided are a toilet block with changing rooms, but they are very adequate and clean. Choose to park up in the front with a view of the lake or at the back against the hills with sheep over the fence. There is room for every type of vehicle, but if you want a front row spot arrive earlier rather than later and you can spend the evening watching all the action on the water. The weekend we were here it filled up fast from 3pm onward. Council rules allow up to 30 vehicles with a maximum 2 night stay. Dogs are allowed with the usual rules in place. Fill your tanks before you arrive, as there is no water on-site. Top photo: ©2023 Jeni C-W STOP and STAY Where to stop when travelling and camping in NZ — use it, share it, add to it. Stop and Stay is a free resource for NZ campers and travellers, brought to you by campers for campers. It might be a country pub for a meal, a rural property, a council reserve, a DOC camp; it might be a commercial campground or a unique day-stop or cafe. Please add your recommendations to the list. Anyone one can access the list or make recommendations. It’s free, too, for property owners to be on the list. Remember to always check with hosts first — phone numbers are provided on most listings, and keep in mind that some properties have restrictions. Dog-friendly properties are indicated on each listing, as are wheelchair accessible properties. STOP and STAY | Add a place to Stop and Stay Up Up 6 Summer 2023 , p 34

7 Autumn 2024 7 Autumn 2024 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption My-floats-G&M sailing 158.webp Orcas Dolphins are common companions on our journeys and one morning we woke up to orcas around our boat on Great Barrier Island. ©2024 Graham Leslie Motoring up the rive Motoring up the river to Warkworth for groceries and ice creams. Trailer sailers have a raisable keel so while they may require a 1.5 meters depth of water when the keel is down to sail, they can float in 40cm or less of water when the keel is up enabling access up rivers or into shallow anchorages. ©2024 Graham Leslie Warkworth . ©2024 Graham Leslie Quazimodo plan This is the layout of our boat showing the cockpit where the boat is sailed from, and the quarter berths underneath. The main cabin with galley and dinette berth and the front cabin that makes up to a double berth. . ©2024 Graham Leslie Pancakes Margaret making pancakes — being short has advantages in this galley. ©2024 Graham Leslie At the table The crew wait to be fed. ©2024 Graham Leslie Quarter berth Quarter berths are a bit like torpedo tubes you sleep in, that run down under the seats of the cockpit. They are more comfortable than they look and you don’t have to worry about rolling out of bed in rough weather. ©2024 Graham Leslie A swim You never need to go far for a swim ©2024 Graham Leslie Swimming You never need to go far for a swim ©2024 Graham Leslie Rafting-up "Rafting up” together with friends is fun for shared meals or even overnight. . ©2024 Graham Leslie "Rafting up” together "Rafting up” together with friends is fun for shared meals or even overnight. . ©2024 Graham Leslie Bayswater Marina Staying in a marina is a bit like staying in a campground with access to mains power, water, rubbish disposal, toilets, and coin-operated showers and laundry. ©2024 Graham Leslie Kerikeri Moored outside the Stone Store Kerikeri. . ©2024 Graham Leslie A quiet Bay in the Marlborough Sounds. Stopped for the night in a quiet bay in the Marlborough Sounds. ©2024 Graham Leslie Catching dinner Food supplies can be supplemented with fishing when your caravan floats. ©2024 Graham Leslie My-floats-P1050059.webp Waiting out a storm Waiting out a storm playing monopoly. ©2024 Graham Leslie Playing cards laying cards in the cockpit at the end of the day. ©2024 Graham Leslie My-floats-cockpit2.webp Sunblocking up Sunblocking up as we head out for a day sailing back from Great Barrier Island. ©2024 Graham Leslie You can ride anywhere A yacht is mostly sailed from the cockpit but you can ride anywhere you want on board from up on deck or still in bed. ©2024 Graham Leslie Plain sailing A yacht is mostly sailed from the cockpit but you can ride anywhere you want on board from up on deck or still in bed. ©2024 Graham Leslie Rigging Quazi Stepping the mast and setting up the boat takes time before the boat is launched. ©2024 Graham Leslie a floating caravan My caravan that floats Graham Leslie Our family owns a 24ft (7.3 metre) trailer sailer. It is a bit like a floating caravan and we have had many camping holidays on the water. With a boat it is easy to move on to a new site or anchorage. In fact, some mornings I have pulled up the anchor and started sailing before the others have got out of their beds. We are Wellington-based but have towed the boat north to the Bay of Islands, the Hauraki Gulf and Great Barrier Island. We have also explored Queen Charlotte Sound in the Marlborough Sounds. There are still plenty of places we are yet to explore. A trailer sailer is an affordable compromise offering us the opportunity to cruise coastal and sheltered waters (and lakes) all around the country without the need to sail it there. The boat allows us to camp (on the water) in many beautiful bays and coves not accessible by road. It offers chances of go to those special places. Most trailer sailers can be managed easily by two adults. We started sailing with our family of four when the kids were about 6 or 7 years old. As the kids grew up they took over more of the sailing. We both did a Boat Masters and a VHF radio course. Yacht clubs can offer lots of advice and support. Racing your boat at a local boat club is a great way to improve boat handling skills. We are self-contained in that we carry a porta potti and our own fresh water. Washing ourselves is mostly done by jumping over the side and swimming (solar showers are also used). We have gas cooking and electric charging from a solar panel and our outboard motor. We use the outboard as little as possible because the boat travels better under sail and sails require no petrol. It is also very pleasant sailing along at about 5 knots exploring bays and coastlines. Freedom camping on the water is much less regulated than on land — you can anchor almost anywhere. I love that we can anchor in exclusive bays with millionaires’ holiday mansions and us in the middle of the bay in our scruffy little boat. The biggest concern when anchoring for the night is finding somewhere your anchor won’t drag and it’s not too bouncy with swells or waves. Land-based campers often complain about the wind rocking their caravan at night. On a boat you are also concerned that your anchor is holding and you don’t drift across the bay or onto rocks during the night. As a consequence you sometimes sleep quite lightly. Nice, sheltered bays with good anchoring can occasionally become crowded with boats. In the Marlborough Sounds “moorings” are used extensively instead of anchors. A mooring is a permanent anchor on the sea floor (maybe a 2-tonne concrete block) with chain and a rope up to floating buoy that can be picked up and secured to your boat. On a fixed mooring you are secure for the night. Marinas offer the boating equivalent of a campground. Its somewhere secure you can tie up and step ashore. Marinas often provide access to mains power, water, rubbish disposal, toilets, and coin-operated showers and laundry. Prices in marinas are based on the size of the boat and for our relatively small boat it is generally cheaper than what we would pay in a campground. Normally we leave our car at the marina for easy access when we come into port. During bad weather, marinas make a great place to have the boat tied up and do land-based activities. This works particularly well in Auckland. You can generally continue to live aboard your boat while your boat is in a marina. Accommodation on a trailer sailer is probably more like a tear drop caravan than a regular caravan. To meet the practical sailing needs of the craft, the cabin head room typically ranges from a bit over 5 foot (1.6 metres) and then reduces down to even less as the deck and hull curve. Our model of trailer sailer is regarded as relatively roomy in the cabin; others have less room. Tidiness is an interesting concept on a boat; space is short, so gear needs to be stowed wherever there is room and be secure. Boats rock on the waves and when a yacht is sailing it can lean over as much as 45 degrees. Unsecured gear ends up on the floor, including the pantry contents, if the cupboard doors are not shut properly. Like camping, a lot of your time is spent outside on the deck and in the cockpit, and a boom tent can be added for shade when anchored. Towing yachts is similar to towing a caravan except they tend to be slightly heavier for their size (due to the need for ballast) and are quite streamlined so don’t catch so much wind. When towing I notice my boat most on the hills. Trailer sailers had their heyday during the 1970s and 1980s. They were mostly made of fibreglass and even though they are now often 40 years old they are still quite serviceable. Prices vary a lot, a bit like caravans, but can be bought for a similar price as an older caravan. The costs of owning a trailer sailor are in repairs — accidents do happen on the water and parts do wear out as you use the boat. The fibreglass hull and decks however are very repairable with minimum skill. New trailers can also be bought for old boats if the original trailer has rusted away. On reflection, holidaying on a trailer sailer may not always be as restful as regular camping but it provides an opportunity to go cruising and see a range of destinations not available by road. Sailing to get there is also part of the experience. The opportunity to raise the anchor and explore round the next headland is always a tempting proposition. n Motoring up the river to Warkworth for groceries and ice creams. Trailer sailers have a raisable keel so while they may require a 1.5 meters depth of water when the keel is down to sail, they can float in 40cm or less of water when the keel is up enabling access up rivers or into shallow anchorages. Watch the slideshow above. Click on the image to load full screen with captions. Up Up 7 Autumn 2024 , p 26

5 Spring 2023 5 Spring 2023 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption more-F-karcher-light.webp Made life so much easier More cold season tips Bette Cosgrove Sharing our best hacks which made life so much easier on a recent Matariki vanning trip. Pre-charged battery-powered mobile light (supplementing the solar power system which has less charging ability in winter): we used GlowRight magnetic sensor lights (pictured) plus Ozito battery pack work-lights which also charge our devices, having an external USB. Karcher window vac (100 min) battery powered, pre-charged. Awesome for removing morning condensation from the windows. Happy with this new purchase thanks for a Mitre10 discount. Good bathmats and old towels for the floor. Also a couple of fast dry towels because there’s nothing worse than wet towels hanging around. Magnets! The best way to dry bathmats and towels was to use magnets to stick to the outside of the vehicle when it’s windy, not raining. Square jigsaw rubber garage floor / ground mats to put under the wheels, for extra traction reversing out of softer ground, to reduce slipping and damage. An extra layer of wool blanket under the bed sheet and mattress protector made for a much cosier sleep. Bette Cosgrove Up Up 5 Spring 2023 , p 16

1 Spring 2022 1 Spring 2022 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Lake Monowai was quiet and still as if time itself had stopped Moss We walked some of the easier, pleasant, short paths through the mossy bush. Hug a tree and bring bug repellent. Hug a tree and bring bug repellent Sleeping with the sandflies: Lake Monowai Heather Auckram Lake Monowai was quiet and still as if time itself had stopped. We weren't outside the van long as I forgot the insect repellent and the sandflies quickly found us! There is a free DOC camping area at the carpark and toilets. No dogs. Lots of curious birds, and bird/animal noises in the dark of night. There are picnic tables and fire drums to light, which may help to keep away the ever-hungry sandflies. We walked some of the easier pleasant short paths through the mossy bush. Hug a tree and bring bug repellent. BY: Heather Auckram PHOTOS: ©2022 Heather Auckram DOC INFO Up Up 1 Spring 2022 , p 13

7 Autumn 2024 7 Autumn 2024 BUY AUTHOR INDEX AUTHORS Click on image for full view and caption Vintage caravan No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Chameleon, an older caravan. No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 M Richardson Probably all these campers at Lowburn freedom camp have cassette toilets that are not vented. No more freedom camping for them. Cassettes dont need to be vented to work right, but the new regulations require it, an expensive process requiring drilling holes in the structure. ©2024 M Richardson Older caravan No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Van camping No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Older caravan No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Poptop ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Fixed casstete toilet, but not vented. Does the motorhome smell when the toilet is used? No. Cassettes dont need to be vented to work right, but the new regulations require it, an expensive process requiring drilling holes in the structure. ©2024 M Richardson Van camping No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Heather Aukram North Island freedom camping road trip No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Shoshanna Shand Vintage caravan No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Gary Hitchock Portable toilet or cassette toilet. Cassettes dont need to be vented to work right, but the new regulations require it, an expensive process requiring drilling holes in the structure. ©2024 M Richardson Rooftop tent No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Teardrop No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Fixed, cassette toilet, but not vented. Cassettes dont need to be vented to work right, but the new regulations require it, an expensive process requiring drilling holes in the structure. ©2024 M Richardson Tear drop and a van with a portable toilet. No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Poptop and toilet tent. ©2024 Dallas Hibbs No room for a fixed toilet. ©2024 M Richardson No more freedom camping Bette Cosgrove No more freedom camping for these responsible campers. No room for a fixed loo… Watch the slideshow, above. Poptop. Articles in this issue on the freedom camping law changes: Predictable problems with the new CSC green warrant system (p2) Editorial (p3) Self-containment warrant cards: Which one is yours? (p6) So you want to freedom camp (p8) What is ‘self-contained’, anyway? (p10) Enforcement of freedom camping rules (p12) I am not freedom camping' cards (p14) Do your bit: Task of the week (p16) No more freedom camping (p16) Kaikōura: the freedom camping Wild West (p18) Hey NZ Govt? You are messing with my mental health (p20) 7 days a week (p21) Celebrating Summer (p5) Up Up 7 Autumn 2024 , p 16

4 Winter 2023 Winter 2023 ISSUE 4 BUY PDF CONTENTS Up The Store cafe and camp – Kekerungu (Marlborough), Stop and Stay Marty Ireland Up This Marlborough, east sea coast, little camp, 45 min south of Blenheim, and 45 min north of Kaikoura, had a humble beginning with campers allowed, but out of sight of the store, for no charge but no facilities. However in recent years a purpose-converted container was installed, with paid showers (including a disability shower), toilets with hot water at the basin and a paid laundry; and there is one emergency power point near the ablution block for anyone desperate for a charge-up. It has become a popular stopping point with a modest charge of $14 pp. It’s a wee gem to stop and chill out at, even on short notice. The sites are varied — right beside the sea, some with the a BBQ table or rustic seats, some under trees, some in spots hidden away among trees and some on clear grass. One important consideration is its proximity to the active (fenced off) railway line. Both the camp and the store are dog-friendly. The Store is open all day and boasts good coffee, a great food selection, sea views, a cosy fire (in season) and local artisan products. While you can book in at the shop they prefer you do it online but be aware it’s a bit confusing and check your receipt. Walk the beach, surf the break, drive or bike up the valleys behind for mountain and sea views, or for a treat, visit the nearby eatery and crayfish store. The Store 5748 SH1 Kekerengu 03 575 8600 thestore.kiwi Stop and Stay Check out our Stop and Stay listings for recommended places to stop and stay on your travels around NZ. 
Only the best. www.stopandstay.org Up Up Stop and Stay stopandstay.org SStay_kekrungu 15.webp SStay_kekerungu 17.webp SStay_kekrungu 15.webp 1/5 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) editor@campingthekiwiway.org

4 Winter 2023 Winter 2023 ISSUE 4 BUY PDF CONTENTS Up Group: Life of Van Bette Cosgrove Up Camping clubs & groups Since 2020 more kiwis have been travelling at home and discovering the delights of outdoor adventures and camping in their own regions. Wellington-based couple Chloe Wright and Jonathan Collins, passionate about tent camping experiences, found that sharing this on Facebook via the NZ Fun Adventures page attracted a growing number of campers who travelled and camped in vehicles, camper vans, trailer campers, or caravans. Being former caravanners, they decided to launch an ‘Life of Van – New Zealand’ as a platform for van travellers to share their tips and tricks, and find a positive community to support other vehicle campers. Life of Van NZ FB Page is a private group with a positive vibe, giving everyone from weekend warriors to van life veterans a place to connect. It focuses on celebrating the sense of freedom in van travelling, while encouraging that free spirit for those who might be new to van life. Look for Life of Van – New Zealand on Facebook ckw.nz/life-of-van Up Up 1/1 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) editor@campingthekiwiway.org

Summer 2025 ISSUE 13 BUY PDF Contents Click on image for full view and caption not-always-geraldine-7-H.webp not-always-geraldine-5.webp not-always-geraldine-4.webp not-always-geraldine-3.webp not-always-geraldine-2.webp not-always-geraldine-6.webp not-always-geraldine-7.webp not-always-geraldine-8.webp not-always-geraldine-9.webp GO TO as the seasons change nine severe weather forecasts ! It’s not always sunshine & roses Andrew Morton It’s not always sunshine & roses out on the road. Nine severe weather forecasts in Canterbury. Luckily I am at the mild end of them all in Geraldine with 11.5mm rain today already of 17mm forecast. 1mm an hour at 8am so that’s my chance to pack up. We managed one day 50km ride in sun & dry conditions. Allan packed up & went home yesterday. I prefer to stick to the plan & enjoy every minute of my time away, whatever the weather. 🏕️ ©2025 Andrew Morton. Up Up Summer 2025 , p 23