Featured Van: Ken and Jane’s Mercedes Sprinter LWB AWD
For some, retirement means slowing down. But for Ken, it was the perfect excuse to dive into a project that required precision, flair, and a bit of grit. In steps a Mercedes Sprinter custom campervan conversion.
After years of working in the trades, Ken is no stranger to hands-on builds. He and his wife Jane built their lovely home together, so they came to us with a very clear vision. They knew what they liked - and what they didn’t - which helped us to create the perfect campervan for them. Their ultimate goal was a van so comfortable and functional that Jane would join Ken in camping adventures around New Zealand.
So once Ken found a Mercedes Sprinter LWB AWD (a rare find in New Zealand), we were off!
A few of our favourite things about this LWB AWD Sprinter:
Elevating the interior
Because Ken appreciates the extra thinking that goes into a build, the interior is packed with custom elements that move beyond standard vanlife fare.
Hardwood masterpiece
Ken wanted to go above and beyond with the ceiling, opting for a continuous, hand-cut hardwood finish. Each individual batten was assembled with precision to create an elevated, high-end look. It’s the kind of craftsmanship that makes you want to lie back and stare at the ceiling until you fall asleep.
Precision cabinetry
Space optimisation was key. We designed shaped cabinetry and intentional cupboard spaces that maximise every millimetre of the Sprinter’s interior. To ensure they had all the comforts of home, we integrated a larger Dometic NRX-115 fridge, providing plenty of cold storage for extended trips.
The all-in-one shower pod
Jane’s must-have was a proper shower cubicle. To meet this, we installed our signature Matt and Dan’s compact shower pod. We’ve engineered this as a perfect solution to a common industry problem: how to make a van shower that is actually hard-wearing and watertight. Plus, it’s super easy to clean.
Space-saving: The toilet tucks away to allow for plenty of room to move.
Functional: Features fully mechanical sealed doors for both the entrance and the toilet hatch.
Drying room: The space is fully ventilated and connected to the diesel heater, making it the perfect spot to dry towels, jackets and shoes after a rainy day in the bush.
Off-grid autonomy
To ensure Ken and Jane are never caught out, we installed a heavy-hitting REDARC power system. This setup is designed to run high-draw appliances like induction cooking, a microwave, and hot water without breaking a sweat.
Charging: 600W of solar on the roof, complemented by 600W alternator charging and shore power.
Power: A 3000W inverter to handle all household appliances.
Monitoring: The REDARC Redvision screen provides real-time data on battery levels and water tank monitoring, so there are no surprises when they’re parked up in remote locations.
Oriworks: the works
Outside, this Sprinter campervan looks as rugged as it is refined, thanks to the ultimate Oriworks package. These locally made products are designed in collaboration with Matt & Dan’s to fit the Sprinter perfectly.
Exterior access: Oriworks left and right side steps for easy entry.
Storage and lighting: An Oriworks Roof Rack housing integrated lighting, solar panels, and the awning.
Rear setup: An Oriworks Rear Door Accessory tray and a custom-engineered bike rack solution.
The bike rack was a special collaboration; we needed a way to mount two heavy e-bikes to the rear while keeping the setup highly functional for loading and driving. It’s the finishing touch on what we consider one of the most premium, locally-enhanced Sprinters on New Zealand roads.
Ken and Jane now have the ideal Sprinter campervan ready to take them around New Zealand. With all the comforts of home, we’re not sure they’ll ever leave the road!
Interested in your own custom conversion? Get in touch with us today to learn more.
Spec List
INTERIOR
Galley style kitchen with u-shaped seating/bed area
Plytech Futura HPL laminate used for cabinet construction and benchtops
Painted wall panelling with custom hardwood ceiling
RV Labs latching handles on cupboards and drawers
Top storage cupboards
Car builders wall and ceiling Insulation
Matt & Dan’s compact all-in-one shower pod
x2 Maxxfan fans
Dimmable LED ceiling and mood lighting
240V outlets
Scanstrut TILE USB A&C outlets
Jabsco 7.6L/PM water pump
Dometic 115L Fridge/Freezer
85L fresh water tank
110L Grey water tank
Lagun table mount + additional mount
Magnetic Curtains, suction cab curtains and sheer pull across curtains
Induction cooking hob
Gimbal Fan
Custom curtains and seat squabs
Reading lights
Certified self-contained with green sticker regulations
POWER SYSTEM
REDARC 3000W Power System
x2 REDARC 200ah batteries
Vehicle alternator charging
REDARC Redvision display with water tank monitoring for x3 tanks
Shore power plug-in
600W solar
SAFETY
Smoke Detector
CO2 Detector
Fire Extinguisher
EXTERIOR
Fresh water connection
Oriworks - Sprinter Roof Rack
Oriworks - Sprinter Rear Door Accessory Mounting Frame
Oriworks - Sprinter Side Steps
Thule 5200 Omnistor Awning
Exterior lighting
Method 703 Rims
Maxxis all terrain tyres
Exterior shower
Additional windows
