FAQs

What do you need for self-containment?

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

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 can perform tests throughout New Zealand on both the North and South islands, search for your location here SC Testing. If youre vehicle does not pass inspection on the first go, we will let you know how to bring it up to scratch and retest it for free!

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;

Why haven't I received my test documents yet?

Once you have passed your test you will be emailed an invoice for the government levy. This needs to be payed before we can process your certification.

Orders can take up to 7 days processing after the government levy has been payed so please be patient during this time. If it has been more than 7 days please give us a call.

How do I collect a product?

If you have received an email that your product is ready for collection, you can collect at 393 Ellerslie-Panmure highway between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

What is the process for getting self containment certified?

1. Book a test in your desired location
2. Select you preferred time and date from the calender. 
3. Checkout.
4. Once you have checked out you will recieve an email with your allocated inspectors contact details. You will need to then call them directly to confirm your appointment and agree the exact address and time of your test. If you have not received your confirmation email including inspectors details, please search your junk email folder for ‘sesami’ (our booking system).
5. Attend youre booked time, you will either pass, or your inspector will give you information on how to bring your vehicle up to standard.
6. If your vehicle doesn't pass its initial inspection, you can reach out directly to your testing officer to arrange a free retest after following their recommendations.
7.  Please note there will be a Government levy of $120/ vehicle due once the vehicle has passed the test. This will be payable before the self-containment can be processed and issued. The invoice for this will be sent to your email once you have passed your test.
8.Once you have paid your government levy we will automatically process your self containment and send on overnight tracked courier to your nominated address. 
Processing times vary due to demand, you can expect to receive your documentation within approximately 7 days of paying the government levy.