Van Stories.
Featured Van: Bridget’s Toyota Coaster Campervan Conversion
Bridget and her family of four wanted a campervan that could be a home base for wherever they wanted to go. As marathon runners who love exploring New Zealand, a Toyota Coaster was their vehicle of choice, offering plenty of space for the comforts of home.
Featured Van: Sam’s Mercedes Sprinter 4x4 Campervan Conversion
Heading off road was Sam’s biggest priority when he asked us to convert his 4WD Mercedes Sprinter 316 into a campervan. Coming from the 4x4 world, Sam wanted something that could easily handle any track, yet was comfortable enough for his whole family.
Featured Van: Toyota Hiace High Roof Campervan Conversion
We wanted to add a mid-size van to our fleet, one with a little extra height, but still super easy to drive. In steps the A-List Plus, a late model Toyota Hiace that is a bit smaller than our Biggie, but has all the features you need for a trip around New Zealand. Our main goal was comfort, in bougie style, as well as the ability to cook indoors and run a heater off-grid, because New Zealand winters are no joke.
Featured Van: Molly’s Volkswagen Crafter Campervan Conversion
Molly knew exactly what she wanted her Volkswagen Crafter conversion to look like and we were happy to make it happen. With a blank canvas and plenty of space to work with, we turned Molly’s Crafter into a home on wheels.
Featured Van: Steve’s LDV Deliver 9 Big Campervan Conversion
We love a campervan conversion that gives the people what they want. Steve came to us with a unique campervan conversion need — he wanted to be able to easily store and charge his and his wife’s e-bikes, all in the van. He also wanted to be able to do it after being off-grid for a few days. Of course, we said no problem. Check out how we made it work in his LDV Deliver 9 Big
Featured Van: Toyota Hiace ZL Campervan Conversion
Now introducing, our Toyota Hiace ZL — our latest campervan conversion in the Matt and Dan’s A-List fleet. Fully self-contained and featuring all the bells and whistles for comforts on a New Zealand road trip, Mr. Van-derson (the van’s formal name, obviously) is ready to hit the open road.
Featured Van: Nan’s 2003 Toyota Hiace Campervan Conversion
Nan came to us with a few simple upgrades for his 2003 Toyota Hiace. He wanted to make the space more useful, having all the basics at hand when he takes the kids camping for the weekend. Looking for durable functionality and simplicity, we knew exactly how to fit out his campervan to make it comfy, easy, and perfect for his adventures.
Featured Van: Curly’s Toyota Hiace ZX Campervan Conversion
Curly’s rig had to be able to pack in all his gear (more than just surfboards!) and provide a comfy place to be post-surf. Making sure we packed that all in — in an aesthetically pleasing but super functional space — is what we do best at Matt and Dan’s. This is how we made Curly’s adventure campervan come to life.
Trip Itinerary: 10-Day New Zealand, North of the South Island Road Trip
If you’re ready for the road trip of a lifetime, this 10-day New Zealand north of the South Island itinerary is for you. While we’re the first to admit that a 10-day road trip isn’t enough time to properly see this diverse island, this north of the South Island itinerary will give you a taste of New Zealand’s best.
Featured Van: LDV Deliver 9 Campervan Conversion
Our 2022 LDV Deliver 9 is loaded with a 2.0L turbo diesel engine, a six speed automatic gearbox, and enough seating for three. It’s the ultimate choice for small families or a couple wanting some extra room while campervaning around New Zealand. Or maybe three small friends? We don’t judge, we just want you to be comfortable.
Featured Van: Ben’s Mercedes Sprinter Campervan Conversion
Ben came to us with an ex-courier 2018 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and some big ideas. He wanted a fit-out that was comfortable, sustainable, and set up for off-grid culinary adventures. Ben had many ideas mapped out but was ready for us to stretch the boundaries and build the perfect van.
Featured Van: Ainsley’s Toyota Hiace ZX Jumbo Campervan Conversion
Ainsley came to us with her Toyota Hiace ZX and one request — to make her campervan the ultimate weekend getaway vehicle. The Toyota Hiace ZX — also known as the Grand Cabin or Minibus — happens to be one of the finest for campervan conversions on the market, so we were ready to create a dream adventure vehicle for Ainsley, her partner, and their pup.
Long Weekend Trip Itinerary: Wanaka
Wānaka, a picturesque lakeside town in central Otago, offers a quaint downtown, lakeside views, and plenty of mountain sports. Located just over five hours from Christchurch, Wānaka makes the perfect destination for a long weekend in a campervan.
5 Things to Consider Before Planning Your Campervan Conversion
There are a lot of different elements to consider when planning your campervan conversion. From the type of van you convert to what you need to take with you, the options seem endless. We have experience with many different conversions and fit-out needs.
We’ve compiled a list of some basic questions we ask our clients when they’re ready for a conversion.
Featured Van: Marie & Jeremy’s Nissan Vanette Campervan Conversion
Marie & Jeremy’s Nissan Vanette campervan conversion was a lesson in efficient use of space and materials. Marie and Jeremy are avid rock climbers and needed enough space to fit bulky climbing gear, while also having enough room to comfortably sleep after a long day on the rock. We were able to think creatively about how to use space in this campervan conversion and provide them with a hard-wearing, but comfortable fit-out that’s perfect for their lifestyle
Trip Itinerary: 10-Day New Zealand South Island Road Trip
If you’re ready for the road trip of a lifetime, this 10-day New Zealand South Island itinerary is for you. While we’re the first to admit that a 10-day road trip isn’t enough time to properly see this diverse island, this South Island itinerary will give you a taste of New Zealand’s best.
Featured Van: Ian’s LDV V80 Campervan Conversion
When Ian came to us with his LDV V80 campervan conversion, we knew we were in for a treat. With intentions to live in the van full time, we worked to make the space as comfortable and functional as possible, all while creating a cosy atmosphere.
How to Campervan in the Winter
Renting a campervan in New Zealand’s winter provides a unique experience. With fewer crowds, crisp mountain views, and cosy vibes, it’s tempting to hit the open road when the temperature drops, however, New Zealand winters can be brutal. Follow our campervan tips to keep you warm and safe while travelling.
Featured Van: Nick’s Toyota Hiace Camper Conversion
Nick’s Toyota Hiace campervan conversion (dubbed ‘Bilbo’) gave us a lot more space and features to play with, allowing us to create a true home on wheels. With space for the whole family and then some, this campervan conversion makes use of every inch, all while keeping it spacious and lofty.
Long Weekend Trip Itinerary: Onuku & Akaroa
Some like to go far to make the most of a long weekend, but we’ve found our own slice of paradise at Onuku Farm Hostel, just outside of Akaroa. The perfect place to find the right balance between relaxation and exertion, we’ll be nipping back to this gem on the Banks Peninsula every chance we get.