Key Takeaways
- A family of five has embarked on an extended trip around New Zealand in a large, off-grid caravan
- They have sold their possessions, invested in a suitable caravan, and are homeschooling their children through a correspondence course
- The family is enjoying life on the road, but faces challenges such as managing power and conserving water
- They are making the most of their experiences, with some of their most magical moments occurring in the deep of winter
- The family is planning to continue their adventures, with a goal of experiencing hoarfrost and snow next year
Introduction to the Family’s Adventure
The idea of selling everything and traveling the country in a caravan may seem daunting to some, but for one family of five, it’s a dream come true. They had previously enjoyed tent camping and decided to take the plunge and invest in a large, off-grid caravan to facilitate their love of travel and the outdoors. The family, who owned a lightweight caravan, sold it and other possessions to fund their new adventure. They also saved hard and invested in a suitable vehicle, a Toyota Hilux diesel, to tow their new home.
The Caravan and Its Features
The family’s new caravan is equipped with all the necessary features to make their life on the road comfortable. It has heaps of solar panels and batteries, which provide power to run any electrical appliance. The caravan is also well-designed to accommodate the family of five, with each member having their own bed. The interior is thoughtfully laid out to ensure that everyone has enough space, especially on days when the weather is not suitable for outdoor activities. The family’s decision to invest in a large, off-grid caravan has been a wise one, as it has provided them with the freedom to travel and explore New Zealand without being tied to traditional accommodation.
Homeschooling and Work on the Road
One of the challenges the family faced was how to educate their children while on the road. They decided to enroll them in a correspondence course, which has proven to be a successful decision. The children are able to complete their schoolwork online, and their teachers have gotten to know them well enough to suggest modules and topics that interest them. The family’s father, a plasterer by trade, is also able to pick up work on the road, which, combined with their savings, is enough to keep them going. The family’s decision to homeschool their children has allowed them to continue their education while also experiencing the world around them.
Challenges on the Road
While life on the road can be exciting and liberating, it’s not without its challenges. The family has to be mindful of their power consumption, especially during the winter months when the days are shorter and the nights are colder. Conserving water is also a challenge, and there are times when they have to go without showers for several days due to a lack of available water nearby. Despite these challenges, the family is making the most of their experiences and finding ways to overcome the obstacles they face. They have learned to be resourceful and adaptable, which has been essential in their life on the road.
Magical Moments
Some of the family’s most magical moments have occurred during their travels, particularly in the deep of winter. They have found that many of the places they visit are less crowded during this time, and they often have the beauty of nature all to themselves. The family has experienced some of the most stunning landscapes and scenery that New Zealand has to offer, and they feel grateful to have had these experiences. They are currently camped in pōtiki, but they are already planning their next adventure, with a goal of experiencing hoarfrost and snow next year.
Future Plans
The family’s love of adventure and the outdoors shows no signs of fading, and they are already making plans for their next trip. They are eyeing up more winter adventures, and their goal is to experience the beauty of hoarfrost and snow. They are excited to see what the future holds and are looking forward to continuing their journey around New Zealand. The family’s decision to sell everything and travel the country has been a life-changing experience, and they feel grateful to have had the opportunity to pursue their dreams. As they continue on their journey, they are sure to create many more magical moments and make the most of their time on the road.