FAQs

What do you need for self-containment?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of requirements for self-containment;

• Freshwater tank (12 litres per person).
• Non-toxic, opaque fresh water supply hose.
• A secure sink.
• A water trap or water seal on each waste outlet.
• Vented, and selaed grey water tank (12 litres person), with caps for the waste inlet and vent fittings for emptying. 
• 3m evacuation hose (If using a fixed grey water tank). 
• Sealable refuse container (rubbish bin / trash can).
• Toilet that can be used inside the vehicle, even when the bed is fully set up. (3 litres capacity per person).
   - For green self containment warrants, this must be a cassette type, or fixed type with separate black tank.
• Sealed, air tight bin minimum 5 litres, secured to vehicle (screwed)

Please note; this is a non exhaustive list only, there are other considerations depending on your individual set up with regard to materials, quality, positioning and dimensions. The official self-containment regulations are a comprehensive guide give us a call if you have any questions.

Where can I get my motorhome, caravan or camper van tested?

SCNZ has can perform tests throughout New Zealand on both the North and South islands, search for your location here SC Testing

Which vehicles can be made into self-contained vehicles?

Technically any vehicle that meets the requirements can be made into a self contained vehicle. Obviously smaller vehicles are more difficult to make compliant and some simply don't have enough space. Some common makes and models that can be made into self contained vehicles include;

Toyota Hiace, Toyota Estima, Toyota Voxy, Nissan Homy, Nissan Serena, Nissan Caravan, Mitsubishi L300, Mitsubishi Delica, Mazda Bongo, Mazda E2000, Mazda MPV, Ford Transit, Ford Econovan, Volkswagen Transporter, Fiat Ducato

If your vehicle is not listed it does't mean that you cannot make it self contained, give us a call if you want to check.

What does self-containment mean?

If your vehicle is self contained it means that you can take advantage of hundreds of free camping areas across New Zealand. To become self contained you must be able to meet the minimum requirements laid out in the self-containment regulations. In short;

'A certified self-contained vehicle meets the ablutionary and sanitary needs of the occupants for a minimum of three days, without requiring any external services or discharging waste.'

What happens if I fail the self containment test?

If you fail the self containment test the first time, you will be given a list of amendments that you need to make to get your vehicle to the self-containment standard. You then can make your changes and we will retest the vehicle once you are done. The retest is free so you only pay for testing once.

Tip; this is a great way to get advice on vehicle layout and design, as you can do this first test before you have started your conversion it really helps you get all the information you require to make your vehicle self-contained.

Why do I need self-containment?

Having a self contained vehicle allows you to freedom camp in some of the best camping areas in New Zealand for free. Without it you cannot use the the hundreds of designated Self Contained areas and may be fined for freedom camping.

Does my waste tank need a vent?

Yes all waste tanks whether they are fixed or portable need to be vented. The minimum size for the vent is 10mm in diameter (25mm recommended). The vent must extend to the flood line of the vehicle (the point that system would flood into vehicle if over filled) and finish outside.

What are the new green warrant toilet requirements?

To be certified self contained under the new green warrants, all vehicles require a toilet which is permanently fixed to the vehicle by the base and does not require removal to empty.

How do I convert my UK imported caravan to be self contained in New Zealand?

It depends on what equipment you already have installed in the caravan and what it comes with as to exactly what you will require.

Another consideration is how many people you need the caravan self contained for?

Examples;

If you already have a rollaway tank you will generally just need a UK caravan conversion kits including three waste traps for you existing plumbing outlets.

If you do not have a rollaway tank or your tank is not big enough you may require the above kit with a 40 litre roll tank, or even a 75 litre waste tank (for up to six people).

If you are unsure of you requirements give us a call to discuss.