We didn’t just buy equipment, we trialled it carefully and have now been using it across our tours for the last three years. Waterproofing, durability, ease of use and genuine comfort all matter when you’re travelling through New Zealand and spending time outdoors.
This is why we’re confident in recommending every item we provide. Your comfort and safety are worth the investment.
As overlanders know, the van quickly becomes more than just transport. It’s part of the adventure itself. You’ll settle into your seat, stash your belongings in the overhead storage, plug into your own USB/C adapter and enjoy the changing landscapes whilst chatting with your fellow passengers along the way.
When the ZigZag team set out to choose a vehicle, we knew it had to be safe, convenient, reliable and genuinely comfortable. We opted for a 2023 Mercedes AWD Sprinter and it ticks every box.
Behind the van, we tow a customised twin-axle trailer fitted with a full kitchen, refrigerator, solar power system and dedicated storage for your personal tent, stretcher, camp chair and baggage. This setup keeps us completely self-sufficient, so we can explore New Zealand’s wilder spots without compromise.
Your tent, stretcher, and camp chair become your personal retreat each evening. They need to be comfortable, rugged, and reliable. Because after a full day of exploring, you deserve a proper night's sleep and a comfortable place to unwind. We spent four months trialling equipment across New Zealand (including 5.5 inches of rain in 36 hours on the West Coast) before we settled on what we use today.
The OZTENT RV-3 employs award-winning design that's genuinely easy to set up. You'll wheel your personal tent to your site in its heavy-duty wheelie bag, then (here's the clever bit) a single person can have the basic tent erected in less than 30 seconds. Add the flysheet, awning, and support poles, and you're fully set up in another 5-10 minutes.
The tent stands tall enough to move around inside comfortably and fits either a single or double camp stretcher, plus your bags. Side and rear windows let you enjoy the view, and a large awning provides welcome shade during the day and a pleasant spot to watch the sun go down.
Built from high-quality 8oz Ripstop polycotton canvas with a heavy-duty, heat-sealed PVC floor, the RV3 is extremely waterproof, we can vouch for that from experience.
We use Zempire stretchers because they're stable, comfortable, and genuinely easy to set up. The 'Speedy Bed King Single' (and its 'Twin' alternative for couples) are longer and wider than standard stretchers. Perfect if you're taller, or if you want room for a larger sleeping mat. The fully folding frame goes up and down in seconds, so there's no faff at the end of a long day.
After a day of exploring, you'll appreciate a proper chair. The Kiwi Camping 'Chillax Chair' is comfortable, sets up super easily, and comes with its own cup/bottle holder and carry bag. It's the little details that make the difference.
ZigZag’s trailer is fitted with a Weber BBQ, turbo gas rings and quality kitchen utensils. Giving us everything we need to prepare fresh, delicious dinners on the road. From buffet-style breakfasts each morning to relaxed campsite meals in the evening, we make sure everyone is well fed and ready for the day’s adventure.
Not sure what to pack? We've created a comprehensive kit list covering everything you'll need for your ZigZag tour. From clothing and toiletries to those little items that make camp life easier.
We know that booking an adventure like this is a big decision and we want you to feel 100% confident before you do. Whether you've got a list of questions or you just want to get a feel for what a ZigZag tour is actually like, we'd love to chat.