Autumn 2023 ISSUE 3 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption NZ is a camping culture Simon Raistrick This is one of the few countries with a sparse enough population to make freedom camping possible. For campers that makes NZ like a global heritage site. If we make our culture more and more environmentally disconnected, younger generations won't care as much about the environment. This essential part of environmentalism is often ignored in NZ yet it is built into the values of organisations like the English National Trust. I also have a degree in earth science. There are many ways to better manage camping which are not being used. Councils don't have the skills or knowledge to protect and support camping, and the pressure on councils to make things easier for themselves is constant. NZ is a camping culture This makes us who we are, connects us to our environment like nothing else and this hobby is constantly under threat. We should remember that and protect our culture and heritage. Up Up 3 Autumn 2023 , p 4

1 Spring 2022 A national network 
of qualified testing officers Up NZ Lifestyle Camping NZ Lifestyle Camping is proud to support NZ campers with a national network of 160 qualified testing officers from Keri Keri to Invercargill. You don’t have to belong to any club to get a self containment check done. If you need to get a self containment check done please contact one our friendly and approachable team. To find out more or check out the latest listings visit www.nzlifestylecamping.com We are committed to supporting NZ campers and the Leisure Camping industry. We are also actively lobbying Government on your behalf to ensure we secure a fair and sustainable leisure camping industry. Don't get caught out by misinformation. The current 4 year NZ Standard for certified self containment NZS 5465:2001 is the standard being used by the NZ leisure camping industry. As we head towards Summer the industry gets super busy. Please get in early to ensure your vehicle servicing is done, well in time, before your trip starts. Gary Stoneley, Managing Director, NZ Lifestyle Camping Ltd. Note: NZ Lifestyle Camping has a standard fee of $45 to cover costs of issuing the required documentation and maintaining our national network. It is also expected that the testing officer will charge for their time. Up Up Up Spring 2022 ISSUE 1 BUY PDF CONTENTS 1/0

8 Winter 2024 Winter 2024 ISSUE 8 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption National-services-Radiator hose_3997_H.webp GO TO Autumn Gold wherever you are in NZ... National services for travellers Editor Winter 2024 NETSPEED Broadband internet on the go A great choice for internet connections in mobile homes, caravans, vehicles and more. no contracts nationwide coverage kiwi support free email address NZ owned and operated discounts for All Points Camping members. netspeed.net.nz SUNSAVER Solar chargers and power banks sunsaver.co.nz Moutere Caravans SOG for all Thetford and Dometic cassette toilets mouterecaravans.co.nz Need to replace your toilet? Consider going waterless with OGO toilets.co.nz BLUEBRIDGE Book now on 0800844844 bluebridge.co.nz STAR INSURE It’s the insurance your motorhome would choose. starinsure.co.nz NZ Lifestyle Camping Self-containment testing, NZ-wide. nzlifestylecamping.com Up Up 8 Winter 2024 , p 50

Autumn 2023 ISSUE 3 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption Gumboots at Taihape ©2023 M Richardson Rangatikei Mangaweka ©2023 M Richardson Mangaweka ©2023 M Richardson Rangakitei Rangatikei Camping and exploring in the Rangitikei Gregory Smith Rangitikei encompasses a large area (4483km2 ) that is generally well-serviced by secondary roading, a multitude of one-way bridges (some say the most in New Zealand), dirt roads and the most beautiful and varied scenery you will ever come across in a single regional council district. The region is directly bordered by Whanganui, Manawatu and Ruapehu District Councils, and is mostly contained within Horizons Regional Council with a small remote area encompassed by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council. The land spreads from the western white sand beaches through river escarpment up to the Central Plateau.
It is fed by two major State Highways, SH1 and SH3, three major river systems and part of Te Araroa — New Zealand’s Trail. From SH1 (Bulls to Waiouru) and SH3 (to Whanganui) secondary roads snake off from these arteries, while tertiary roads (mostly unpaved, dirt roads) are like a spider web connecting all the farms and stations together. The southern boundary is girt by the Rangitikei River up to Mangaweka, where it heads east, following the Kawhatau River into the hills. Then it follows the hills north into vast, empty, native forest land until crossed by the Taihape–Napier Road (aka The Gentle Annie). Other than the state highways and The Gentle Annie, there are few roads suitable for larger vehicles such as campers, but where you can access the back roads, do so, for the magnificent scenery. The locals are friendly and may direct you to camping sites, if you stop for a chat and ask nicely. The northern boundary is through the Kaimanawa Forest Park, south of Waiouru, then west towards Rangiwaea (literally, in the middle of nowhere on dirt roads) and south to Papanui Junction on the Turakina Valley Road. The western route, from Taihape through Papanui Junction is a most scenic route, suitable for all vehicles in the dry weather. There is a point where views to the sea can be enjoyed, remarkable, from so far inland— a lot of sites along this route boast good views. Park well off the road as farmers use this road and are ruthless in their driving abilities. The wee, unfortunate Whangaehu forms the Northern limit on SH3, which follows Whangaehu River to the sea. The site is unfortunate as it is on a floodplain and due to regular river overspills, renders most housing uninsurable. The Rangitikei District Council prides itself to offer freedom camping throughout it’s boundaries and is ‘Motor Home/Caravan Friendly’. “We offer clean, clear night skies for star gazing in rural areas.” Visit this site for a wide range of activities: rangitikei.com Most early access was via the river, leaving the roads undeveloped. With an historically low population (just over 1 household per km2), the large nature of farm stations, the coastal steamer routes that bypassed Rangitikei (in favour of Foxton/Palmerston North and the Wanganui ports), this situation has, arguably, barely improved. But this lack of development is a benefit to sightseeing. Here are a few tips Park in designated areas, not just on the side of roads, as farmers use these roads with large machinery at all hours and large cattle trucks are plentiful. Be aware of your own security, and ensure you have cell coverage (even if your own provider has no signal, emergency calls can be made on any provider’s network from any phone). Leave no trace, and do help clean up whenever stopping, to keep the place pretty for the next visitor. Drive to the conditions, respect locals and give way to other vehicles (and animals) on the road, as their livelihoods depend on access; you are a visitor to their domain. Read more, with camping sites, interesting routes and local attractions on our website.: ckw.nz/rangatikei There will be locations and attractions I have missed. Some deliberately as this is about camping, but I do recommend that wherever you go, stop and talk to the locals: they have endless knowledge and are usually very willing to offer their suggestions. SH1 Taihape Home to the Taihape-Napier Road (the Gentle Annie). Magnificent views, but put aside a whole day, or two to traverse its twisting hilly course into the Rangitikei from the Hawke’s Bay. Camping at the halfway point just inside the boundary cannot be beat. North east of Taihape, off Hautapu Street in Papakai Park, is a nice stream and picnic area (mozzies permitting). Gumboots at Taihape. ©2023 M Richardson Overnight camping is allowed, but gates are shut at dusk. Start of the Hautapu River walk (4 km; risk of flooding). Huge number of fast food outlets in town. Give cooking a break and also shop the second hand stores. Check out the gumboot throwing arena near the railway station and test your arm (gumboots are usually in attendance). River Anduin from Lord of the Rings is inland from Taihape but inaccessible. Best views are from Mokai River Bridge, access from the Gravity Canyon road (Gorge Road) just before you get to Utiku. Well worth a few days to explore this forgotten area and arguably the best river views in New Zealand. Utiku and south Stop and enjoy the history of wool as Utiki was the hub of wool spinning. Families would stop from miles around to buy their next years’ worth of wool. There may be parking at the old petrol station on SH1 as the owner has a second hand shop in Taihape and can be asked. Otherwise there is a rest area with tables just south of the town. If you’ve taken the inland route from Gravity Canyon, you’ll come out just before the Mangaweka climb. I suggest you avoid the hill and head South to McKinnon’s Bush Reserve on Potaka Road. Great camping to be had on the banks of the Kawhatau River. Then head left on Kawhatau Road for a scenic route to Mangaweka (dirt roads). Stop at Ruahine Dress Circle Reserve for a dip in the most scenic swimming hole in New Zealand. I challenge you. Then stop at the lookout back on Manawatu Scenic Route towards Mangaweka. (I cheated, this is in the Manawatu, but so close to Rangitikei) Mangaweka and Rangitikei River access Coming in from the east you’ll cross our newest bridge (still one lane) and find Rangitikei Camping Grounds. One of the most scenic places you’ll stay. Pay for your spot at Awastone (back over the river) or in the kiosk (if manned). Do the walk to the old Mangaweka Power House and Dam. Some good footwear is advised (numerous dead jandals seen beside track). A short drive traversing part of the old Mangaweka Track can be accessed via Te Kapua Road, just south of the Mangaweka township. It loops back to SH1, north of the town. Overnight parking is available at the Mangaweka Hall car park near the public toilets. Visit the Museum on Sundays. It is a fantastic collection, lovingly curated and cared for by locals. Art is the thing in Mangaweka. EV Charging is available in the township. ChargeNet and Tesla Supercharger. Look out for the Mangaweka Scenic Reserve Track (1.4 km) Stop on the climb south for more fantastic views of the Rangitikei River white stone cliffs. Ohingaiti The Ohingaiti Tavern offers truck stop accommodation and meals. Over the main highway in the old school grounds is Ako Retreat and the host is now offering powered sites for self-contained vehicles, in addition to a 3 brm home for stays. Just to the north is Flat Hills Café and Tourist Park ( https://www.flathills.co.nz ). An awful lot of effort has gone into creating a one stop facility and it offers everything you’ll need to stay. Otara Road takes you to Whitecliffs Boulders where a day can easily be lost in the wonderland. Whitecliffs Boulders Track (3.9 km) (closed for lambing Aug-Oct). Vinegar Hill Campground, not exactly in Rangitikei as you cross the river to access, but this campground is very scenic. Just avoid New Years period as it hosts a large contingent of campers. Hunterville An alternative scenic route (dirt) is to take Ongo Road to the west of Hunterville, and then north via Turakina Valley Road where a lot of camping opportunities beside the river can be found. You can get lost in these dirt roads, so be sure of your route. Final destination is back to Taihape. Or turn south off Ongo road onto Mangahoe Road then take Turakina Valley Road South to Turakina. If you like, turn left before Turakina on Makuhao Road and head towards the Tutaenui Reservoir where a walk around the lake can be enjoyed as well as a car park for an overnight stay (be prepared to be woken early by dog walkers and MTBs using the track). Just South of Hunterville is the Bruce Park area on the right (the old SH1 route), Aldworth Road, which boasts 1 hour bush walk, and a limited car park with toilet facilities. Bulls Site of Camp Fest 2023. There is a motel/camp site to the South of the town. Freedom camping can be had nearby. Southbound, cross SH1 at the Rest Area just before the bridge and traverse the dirt road towards the river under the bridge to an open area. Freedom camping can also be obtained at the Domain (during Camp Fest) on the carpark in front of the rugby clubrooms. Just be sure you want to stay all night as the gates are locked at dusk. EV Charging is available at the Bulls Community Centre. Scotts Ferry There is a small campsite at the entrance to town. Toilets and the site features a “weather rock”. Access to the river stopbank behind affords nice walk to the river mouth. Walk through town to the beach. Avoid whitebaiting season and stormy weather as it is busy with regulars and the site is prone to flooding. The old Coach Road crossed Rangitikei River at this point, forcing a significant diversion for travellers. Later on, another ferry crossing at Ferry Road, Bulls, provided a shorter route until the Bulls bridge was built. The old ferry was restored and is a feature at the entrance to the township. SH3 Whangaehu A small road towards the sea is probably the shortest route to the Tasman Sea from any state highway in Rangitikei. However, there is cross country required over farmlands (close gates that are closed, leave open gates that are open) to a camping site which is favoured by whitebaiters. This area is subject to flooding and soft soils, therefore should be avoided in rain and non-4wd vehicles. Ratana The seat of the Ratana religion where government meets on TW Ratana’s birthday to hand over the fiscal envelope and assure the continuation of government. It is accessed by a dead-end road that is well signposted. No formal campsite, but the locals are friendly and may direct you to a suitable site if you ask nicely. Turakina The town no longer has a tavern and only boasts a petrol station and 2 cemeteries. The café at the antiques shop is no longer operating, but the shop is worth a stroll through. Koitiata This is the beach west from Turakina and has a lovely campsite near the shore. Overruns from the camp are contained in a area on the other side of the road. It may appear to be free camping, but it is reserved for paying campers. There is limited space on the side of the road, or if 4wd capable, towards the beach down a sandy track. Marton Site of the annual Country Music Festival which hosts over 400 campers at Sir James Wilson Memorial Park to the east of the town. Located off Marton's Wellington Rd behind Marton Memorial Park is a lovely short walk. The loop path is of exceptional quality and takes about 20 minutes to walk around. Lots of mature trees and tranquil spots to sit and gaze at the trees, right in the heart of Marton township. There is an NZMCA park behind Marton Park, but as RDC allows freedom camping, you can take advantage of some lovely overnight spots around town, especially Totara Street and Marton Park where public toilets are located (avoid Saturday morning sports though). Head North up Tutaenui Road to the reservoir for a good walk and more camping sites. Dudding Lake Ten minutes drive north of Bulls is a sensational recreational facility. The lake is great for swimming, boating, jet-skiing and water skiing. Fishing is permitted as the lake is stocked with trout and has a good population of perch. The campground is located next to the lake and has powered and non-powered sites for tents, campervans, caravans, and hall for rent. There is a 2km walkway around the lake planted with native trees and great views of birdlife at the upper end. https://duddinglake.nz/ References: https://www.localcouncils.govt.nz/lgip.nsf/wpg_url/Profiles-Councils-by-Region-Manawatu-Wanganui?OpenDocument Accessed 10/02/2023 Up Up 3 Autumn 2023 , p 12

Autumn 2023 ISSUE 3 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption Our first camper! Anonymous We are thrilled with our Pop Top. Up Up 3 Autumn 2023 , p 41

Winter 2025 ISSUE 12 BUY PDF ToC Click on image for full view and caption parking-caravan_H_paeroa.webp GO TO CHILLY CHILLY CHILLY OUT THERE Stop 15 mins into the trip and check the temperature of the wheels with your hand Parking brakes and perils Paeroa Towing Service When transporting any trailer or caravan, especially if it is new to you, it is essential to stop 15 minutes into the trip and check the temperature of the wheels with your hand. If they are excessively hot it indicates a problem. Regrettably, this is a common occurrence. Yesterday, I collected a caravan for a lovely couple who had purchased it, but it failed to reach their home due to a brake fault that caused the wheels to lock up while in motion, resulting in damage. Although the caravan had a current Warrant of Fitness and registration, inspection of the brakes revealed that they were metal on metal and required replacement. I frequently emphasize the importance of transporting caravans for inspection and obtaining a new Warrant of Fitness prior to use. When towing a new-to-you caravan, stop 15 minutes into the trip and check the temperature of the wheels with your hand ©2025 Paeroa Towing Service Paeroa Towing Service on FB Caravan parking and brake tip Gary Stoneley, NZ Lifestyle Camping When parking up a caravan you should not leave the manual handbrake on for any length of time, particularly in winter: block the wheels instead . Park brake on Park brake off Don’t leave them on, of course, when you head off. (Easy to say!) Having the hand brake on can cause the brakes to bind up, making the vehicle very difficult to move or tow with increased drag. While the brakes may free up after some movement, the brakes can heat up or seize and the brake pads will suffer excessive wear. Overheating the brakes and wheel can affect the wheel bearings causing the bearing to seize up and can cause a fire as a result. 🏕️ Up Up 12 Winter 2025 , p 22

Autumn 2023 ISSUE 3 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption A storm over the DOC Homestead campsite Tony Kissel A storm over the DOC Homestead campsite near St Bathans, Central Otago. Tony Kissel Photo ©2023 Tony Kissel Up Up 3 Autumn 2023 , p 6

12 Winter 2025 ISSUE 12 BUY PDF ToC Click on image for full view and caption editorial_H_quinney's-after.webp GO TO Chilly chilly chilly out there The impact of our changing weather. Weather, climate and camping: editorial Miriam Richardson Campers of all stripes are feeling the impact of our changing weather. Both Kaiteriteri’s Bethany Park in Tasman and Quinney’s Bush (also in Tasman; above) face a big cleanup after 2 once-in-100-year floods in a fortnight. A mini-tornado destroyed one camper and upturned another in Tauranga Bay in Northland. The damage from Cyclone Gabriel is still being remedied 2 years later, and some of the devastated campsites seem unlikely to reopen. Narrow winding roads through our steep mountains and hills, leading to more out of the way places are very vulnerable to slips and reinstatement is not quick, and each time raises question about the economics of repair. Read Vunerable Roads National funding for extreme weather events has been repurposed for things this government considers more important so the energy, effort and costs of recovery as well as of future-proofing for changing weather is left to famillies, businesses, and local councils. How, as campers, can we support affected campgrounds? If we want to keep camping facilities alive in remote and beautiful parts of the country, what can we do? 🏕️ Tiaki mai, tiaki atu, Miriam Richardson, Editor Above photos: ©2025 Quinneys Bush Up Up 12 Winter 2025 , p 4

2 Summer 2022 Summer 2022 ISSUE 2 CONTENTS PDF BUY Up How many freedom campers are there? Bette Cosgrove and Miriam Richardson Up Nobody knows. The Ministry has made some guesses. 'Certified self contained' freedom campers MBIE, the government ministry charged with providing the Minister of Tourism with facts, does not know how many freedom camping vehicles there are. They do not know how many private vehicles, that are currently certified self contained, would become ineligible because their toilets are not fixed (if the law changes, as proposed). They have estimated (because they do not know) that there are 73,000 vehicles currently certified, all of which have usable toilets, but they do not know what kind of toilet. [ ckw.nz/mbie-numbers MBIE estimates the rental fleet at 5,000 vehicles, and they do not know how many of those have fixed or non-fixed toilets either. Responsible, but uncertified freedom campers MBIE does not know how many New Zealanders use their vehicles to freedom camp. How many freedom campers shit in the bushes? MBIE do not know. They have an estimate from a small survey, of how many don't use their onboard toilets, but they did not ask, so they do not know, how many of those used public toilets instead. See Talking to four van loads of international tourists for some real life information on this. How many NZ travellers, not camping, get caught short and use the bushes as a loo? MBIE do not know, and I don't think they have even considered this, nor the inadequate provision of public facilities across the country. They, and we, can pretty safely assume that travellers that don't expect to camp probably don't carry a toilet (fixed or unfixed) with them. All in all, an appalling lack of facts All in all, the lack of facts underlying the proposed legislative changes is pretty appalling. These changes will affect New Zealanders for generations to come, and are being rushed through, regardless of a profound lack of facts. Up Up 1/1

7 Autumn 2024 Autumn 2024 ISSUE 7 BUY PDF CONTENTS Click on image for full view and caption Summer in NZ Alan and Joyce call Alberta Canada home. This particular trip to New Zealand extends from early November to early April. ©2024 Glyn Wooller Living an endless summer Glyn Wooller, Waikato River Trails Delightful to chat with Alan and Joyce on a glorious summer’s day at Little Waipa reserve. Joyce was setting out the table and chairs in a sunny spot overlooking the Waikato River after a chillyish night with temperature inside the caravan at a brisk 11º. Alan and Joyce call Alberta Canada home. Alan, originally from west Auckland, left as a young man. Since meeting 13 years ago in Canada they have lived an endless summer travelling across hemispheres avoiding the colder climates. Prior to retirement Joyce worked in construction financing and Alan as a surveyor largely in the oil industry. Alan’s work through Canadian winters is one of the contributing factors to their love of the endless summer lifestyle. This particular trip to New Zealand extends from early November to early April. Joyce recalls her first trip to New Zealand in a Honda Oddessy which included a trip to the Central Otago Rail Trail. Visits now are in the comfort of the Winnebago caravan. Most recently Alan and Joyce have been to other camping reserves along the Waikato River Trail in Whakamaru and Mangakino. Time on the trail is largely via walking although there is a bike on the rack which Alan will take out from time to time. This is not their first visit to Little Waipa reserve, Alan and Joyce have stayed many times. What they enjoy about the Riverside Trail between the reserve and Arapuni Village is the peaceful environment, picnic tables, the Huihuitaha boardwalk, wildlife and refreshments at the Rhubarb Café. Alan and Joyce until recently lived in a busy urban environment. Now living in a small village with a population of less than 200 people they thrive on the lack of noise pollution. The peaceful reserves along the River and the Waikato River Trails resonate with the tranquility Alan and Joyce love so much. Next destination for this lovely couple prior to heading back to Canada is the Coromandel. To Alan and Joyce, all the best with your travels. GO TO Celebrating Summer an endless summer travelling across hemispheres to avoid the cold Motorhome with a fixed toilet. Will not get a warrant unless the cassette toilet is vented. Up Up 7 Autumn 2024 , p 34 ISSN 2815-827X (Online) | ISSN:2815-8261 (Print) ISSUE 4 editor@campingthekiwiway.org

Summer 2025 ISSUE 13 BUY PDF Contents Click on image for full view and caption rvbooks-lightning-gelong_H.webp GO TO as the seasons change lightning risk in RVs is very low but far from random Lightning risk in RVs Collyn Rivers Lightning frightens, but lightning risk in RVs is very low. That risk however is far from random. Here’s how to reduce it yet further. About 80% of those struck were using a land-line telephone. This risk is falling fast as people switch to risk-free mobiles. Golfers however are particularly at risk, especially if swinging a club. Also at risk is anyone using an umbrella during a storm, or walking on a beach. It’s not that hard to reduce the odds! Some areas of Australia are especially prone to severe thunderstorms. These include the Blue Mountains, the Dandenong Ranges, the Kimberley, and the north of Australia (generally during the monsoon season). The lightning risk in RVs in these areas is very much higher than in most other areas. It is primarily for those living or travelling in such areas that this article is intended. Image: Lightning strike over Geelong (Victoria) in March 2012. Pic: (by Rod Howard) courtesy Geelong Advertiser. How lightning strikes At all times, the earth’s surface carries a typically negative charge. The upper atmosphere carries a positive charge. As a storm develops, the voltage difference builds up to many hundreds of millions of volts. Once the voltage between ground and upper atmosphere exceeds a certain level, the air ionises (i.e. electrons become freer to move). This eases the passage of a lightning strike much as straightening or surfacing a road initially eases traffic flow. So-called ‘step leaders’ reach down toward earth and (like early pioneers, the one that gets there first tends to set the route for that which follows). On earth, objects respond by sending out positive voltage streamers. When such a streamer meets a step leader, a conductive link is formed. The resultant current flow generates so much heat that the surrounding air literally explodes — resulting in thunder claps. Lightning risk in RVs – seek shelter if outside The most dangerous place to be in a thunderstorm is out in the open but there is usually a fair amount of notice. A good rule is to seek shelter once a thunderstorm is within 10km. That’s about 30 seconds between seeing the lightning flash and hearing the thunderclap. Stay sheltered for at least 30 minutes after the last lightning is seen. If you are caught out, avoid becoming a positive voltage streamer — such as a golfer in mid-swing. Do not use an umbrella. You are actually safer if soaking wet as any current is more likely to pass through the wet clothing. If the risk seems very high, crouch down with feet together and with your head held low. Never shelter under a tree . If you have to stand, keep your feet as close together as possible. This is because a nearby strike causes voltage differences of thousands of volts per metre in the nearby ground. Having a few hundred volts difference between one foot and the other leaves you very dead. Absolutely do not lie down. Almost any form of building is safer than being outside but keep away from walls, metal plumbing etc. Do not use the loo (water is conductive). The lightning risk in metal-bodied caravans, motorhomes and coaches is exceptionally low. A metal structure (even of metallic mesh) provides a so-called ‘Faraday cage’ within which all current flows through the external metal to earth. Within such an RV you may not even be aware of a strike. If the storm is at least 10km away, lower the TV antenna (disconnect it at least). Physically disconnect all external power leads. Do not, however, do either if a storm is closer. ‘Cone of protection’ is a myth Ignore all campfire and forum internet mythology about the ‘cone of protection’ provided by tall trees and buildings. These attract lightning strikes. Such strikes cause a voltage gradient that spreads out on the ground beneath and near the sides of a tree or building. This can kill at up to 30 metres or more from that strike’s centre. Essentially nowhere outside a building or vehicle is safe whilst lightning is around. Whilst a vehicle’s tyres might appear to insulate the vehicle from earth, all rubber tyres now contain carbon. They are deliberately semi-conductive to limit static charge build-up. At lightning’s voltages, tyres become good conductors. In storm conditions, however, do not exit an RV holding the door handle whilst touching the ground. It’s best not to go outside anyway. All large external metal structures attached to a caravan or motorhome (e.g. air conditioners) should be bonded to the chassis using at least 6 AWG cable. Lightning rods These work by dissipating ‘electrical charge’ built up where the voltage difference does not become high enough to attract a ‘step leader’. They work best if they have a point at the top. That point concentrates and assists charge dissipation. A lightning rod is well worth having in lightning-prone areas — such as the Kimberley. Lightning risk in RVs that have fibreglass or composite bodied vehicles is reduced by having a conventional lightning conductor with a (sharp) spike. This should be well above the roof and earthed to the vehicle chassis via starter motor cable that runs externally. If you do this never use soldered joints as the massive current flow will melt them instantly. Instead have an auto-electrician crimp them for you. Lightning seeks the straightest path. To reduce lightning risk in RVs keep any such earthing cable as straight as possible and routed well away from where people may be. 🏕️ Lightning risk in RVs — further information For those seriously interested in lightning risk in RVs, the Standards reference is AS/NZS 1768:2007. Reproduced with permission rvbooks.com.au . 
Emphasis added. rvbooks.com.au/lightning-risk-in-rvs/ Up Up Summer 2025 , p 24

10 summer 2024 Summer 2024 ISSUE 10 BUY PDF ToC Click on image for full view and caption GO TO Springing some of my favourite freedom camping sites SH 32/41, West of Lake Taupo On the road less travelled, down double-digit highways, which wind alongside the mighty Waikato and follow the western and southern shores of Lake Taupo, I find some of my favourite freedom camping sites. You loop off SH1 before Tirau onto Horahora Road to travel from Arapuni to Whakamaru. The Waikato River Trail has multiple camping and cycling options. Every one is unique and beautiful, with free camping. The route links into SH32 to get around Lake Taupo via SH41 to Tūrangi. Little Waipa and Arapuni are top spots at the northern end. Back country dairy lands follow the mighty Waikato south on roads that have very little traffic compared to the central, SH1 route. This rich dairy farm country offers splendid scenery along the river, with massive stations like Hodderville just south of Putāruru proving that we can grow some of the best grass in the world. It’s a calming pallette of blue and green as far as the eye and sky can reach. It’s common to wake up in one of the many riverside campgrounds to see thick mists rising while gliding swans and ducks split the silken surface of the wide, dark water. Jones Landing is a particularly peaceful, smaller site. There is a playground, shelter, gas barbecues, boat launch, toilet and shower facilities, recycling bins and everything available for day visitors and campers. The sites link beautiful walk and cycle trails. Camping permits are free of charge by applying online for a maximum of four weeks stay. Short-term stays of up to two consecutive nights are ok for all vehicles, tents, bicycles without a permit. A top spot for water sports, kayaking and paddleboarding is the largest site, Whakamaru Reserve at the southern end. There’s tons of space alongside the lake behind the dam. All are water-view sites providing for all types of camping. From here you can head towards Kinloch and Acacia Bay to reach one of the most stunning free DoC camps in the North Island — Whakaipo Bay — on the northern edge of Lake Taupo. Whakaipo Bay We try to spend a night at the Durhams Point Reserve on the way there. It’s a compact sheltered camp ground with a few lovely, more private sites. Then leaving Whakaipo head back west to the beautiful SH32 around the western shores of Lake Taupo to meet SH41 for the Kuratau to Tūrangi section. You’ll see a variety of landscapes on this route from ancient volcanic rock outcrops, and forestry, to native bush fringes around the lake at Pukawa and steaming geothermal activity at Tokaanu. It’s always a joy to take this loop off SH1 before tackling the Desert Road to head south. n Photos ©2024 Bette Cosgrove Next: SH45 Up Up 10 Summer 2024 , p 5