Caravan Imports from Australia to New Zealand – The Pros and Cons
New Zealand is one of the best places in the world for a caravan journey. The country is gifted with natural beauty and several sites would make for a potentially great caravan destination. However, until recent times there has been a shortage of high-quality caravans in New Zealand, which prompted some caravan enthusiasts to import them from directly from Australia. The appeal of high-quality Australian made vans was something dedicated Kiwi’s were willing to go to great lengths to acquire.
Before heading down this path it’s worth assessing if you’re biting off more than you can chew and whether the Australian caravan you’re looking for is actually stocked in NZ already. Yep, in the last 5 years following the Covid era caravanning boom the NZ caravan market has expanded considerably, with more premium Aussie made vans now ready to buy here in NZ.
Hot Tip: Fortis Caravans NZ exclusively stocks Australian-Made caravans from Leader and Supreme Caravans along with the off-road specialists, Urban Caravans.
Pros of Importing Caravans to New Zealand
There are several advantages to importing caravans to New Zealand. Here are why it makes sense to do so:
1. Broader Selection and Customisation Options: Australia’s caravan market is one of the largest and most developed in the world, offering a wide range of models, from basic setups to luxury accommodations on wheels. Importing directly from Australia could provide access to a broader selection of caravans, including the latest models and more customisation options than might not be readily available in New Zealand.
2. Potential Cost Savings: Depending on the model and specifications, importing a caravan from Australia could offer significant cost savings, even after accounting for shipping and import duties. This is particularly true for highly specialised caravans which are not available for retail in NZ.
3. Access to Unique Models: Some caravan models or features unique to the Australian market may not be available in New Zealand. Importing allows New Zealanders access to these unique models and features, catering to specific needs or preferences that local options might not satisfy.
Cons of Importing Caravans to New Zealand
These are the potential downsides to importing caravans from Australia to be aware of.
1. Compliance and Safety Standards: New Zealand has specific compliance and safety standards for vehicles, including caravans. Imported caravans must meet these requirements, which can involve additional modifications and inspections, adding to the total cost and potentially offsetting any initial savings.
2. Warranty and Servicing Issues: Dealing with warranty claims or servicing for an imported caravan can be more complicated and expensive than for a locally purchased one. Manufacturers’ warranties might not be valid internationally, or there may be fewer authorized repair centers, leading to longer wait times for parts or repairs.
3. Cost of Importation and Logistics: The cost of shipping a caravan from Australia to New Zealand, along with import duties, GST, and other fees, can be substantial. These costs can vary widely depending on the size and value of the caravan and can significantly impact the total cost of ownership.
4. Availability of Local Alternatives: With many of Australia’s leading caravan brands now available in New Zealand, the advantages of importing are less pronounced. Local dealers offer competitive pricing, warranty support, and servicing options, making them a convenient and often more practical choice.
Tips for Choosing Caravan Imports Australia
It pays to research when importing caravans from Australia to New Zealand to ensure that you can get your money’s worth and that everything goes as planned.
Importing a caravan from Australia to New Zealand can offer access to a wider range of options and potential cost savings, but it’s important to weigh these benefits against the drawbacks. The need to comply with local standards, along with the complexities of international warranties, servicing are significant considerations. Given that many of Australia’s top brands are available locally, New Zealanders are encouraged to carefully assess whether importing a caravan offers enough advantages to outweigh the convenience and support available from purchasing within New Zealand.
With these tips, you can be confident that your chosen caravan is a wise investment for your money. The best manufacturers will save you time and money in the buying process. The next step is to enjoy your caravan journey in New Zealand.