We had a couple of issues with United Campervans.

I know they are going through some transitions because now they are at the same depot as Britz and Maui in Christchurch.  We booked through Motorhome Republic, which may have also been the source of blame for our first problem.  At booking online, we were asked details for hotel (when and where) pickup.  After waiting at hotel reception beyond appointed time, we found out United doesn’t do pickups.  The bedding for our queensized sleeping area consisted of a single-wide duvet and equivalent blanket.  Our GPS wouldn’t charge with the charger provided, yet no refund of the extra charges was offered.  Our toilet did not flush.  To United’s credit, they found a mechanic at Hanmer Springs to fix the toilet (a blown fuse).  However, they told us the mechanic would be there at 7:30am when in fact the station opened at 7:30am, but the mechanic doesn’t come in until 9:30am.  It comes down to whether I would use United again and no, I wouldn’t.  Our North Island rental with New Zealand Frontiers was flawless and I had hoped to have the equivalent in South Island. If only Kenrick would clone himself and set up shop in Christchurch!

What would we have done differently?

We would have reworked the itinerary to spend the night of the 5^th anywhere but in Buller Gorge!  The sandflies were horrible, and our pick of Owen’s River Reserve was not a good one, due to the location of power hookup next to the loos and the fact there was no lighting inside the facilities and no hot water as advertised.  I would have either stayed a night at Takaka so we could explore Golden Bay a bit more (and maybe get another chance at Rawhiti Caves).   Or would have spent the night in Westport and spend a day checking out Karamea, further north of Charming Creek Walkway.

What were the highlights?

Fred and I both agree on Sawcut Gorge and Motukiekie Beach.  Fred also mentioned the kayak/hike in Abel Tasman as well as our ill-fated, but memorable, adventure to Rawhiti Caves.  My #3 goes to Smith Holiday Park’s after-dark adventure to see glowworms and returning though the cow paddocks.