The Self Contained Vehicle Centre
Ensure your caravan, motorhome, or camper van meets New Zealand’s 2023 self-contained certification standards.
We provide expert inspections and certification to keep your vehicle compliant for hassle-free camping.
Our Services
Wastewater
System Installation & Inspection
Freshwater
Drinking Water & Sanitation Compliance
Electrical
Electrical System Certification
Consultation
Understanding NZ’s self-containment rules.
Our Services
Caravan or Motor-home WoF
Owning a caravan or motorhome is all about the freedom to explore, but staying roadworthy is essential for safe and enjoyable travels. Our certification centre specializes in Caravan and Motor Home Warrant of Fitness (WOF) checks, ensuring your vehicle meets New Zealand’s legal safety standards. From brakes and lights to tires and structural integrity, our expert technicians will thoroughly inspect your vehicle to ensure it’s fit for the road. If repairs or upgrades are needed, we can help get you back on track quickly, so you can focus on your next adventure.
Self Contained WoF
For freedom campers and travelers who love to go off-grid, a Self-Contained Warrant of Fitness is a must. We provide comprehensive assessments to ensure your caravan or motorhome meets the NZ self-containment standards of the Self-contained Motor Vehicles Legislation Act 2023. Our inspections cover all the essentials, including waste storage, water systems, and toilet facilities. If your vehicle requires adjustments or upgrades to meet certification, our team can advise and assist with the necessary improvements. With our support, you’ll have everything you need to camp responsibly and comply with local council regulations.
Whether you’re planning short weekend getaways or extended journeys, our services will ensure your caravan or motorhome is ready for the road ahead.
Hit The Road!
Ready for your next adventure? Our FAQ section covers everything you need to know about New Zealand’s 2023 self-contained vehicle certification.
From water and sanitation to electrical systems, get all the answers to keep your vehicle road-trip ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are often asked certain questions about our business, and the services we can offer. So here is a short list of Frequently Asked Questions to help you get a better idea of what we do:
What is a self-contained vehicle certification, and why do I need it?
Self-contained vehicle certification ensures your campervan, motorhome, or caravan meets New Zealand’s 2023 standards for managing wastewater, water supply, and sanitation without relying on external facilities. It is required to camp at many designated areas incluyding for freedom camping.
What are the main water and sanitation requirements for self-contained certification?
Your vehicle must have a freshwater supply, a certified toilet, and a greywater storage system to meet the requirements. Wastewater must be stored for at least 3 days.
How do I ensure my vehicle’s electrical system meets self-containment standards?
Your vehicle’s electrical system must be capable of powering all essential appliances and fixtures (like lights and pumps) off-grid. This usually includes solar panels, batteries, or a reliable backup power source.
What size water tanks do I need to meet the 2023 self-contained standards?
Freshwater tanks should hold enough water for a minimum of 3 days for all occupants. The tank size depends on the number of people using the vehicle but typically ranges between 12 and 40 liters per person.
Does my campervan’s toilet system need to be permanently installed to be certified?
Yes, the toilet must be securely installed, usable with the bed made up, and capable of containing waste hygienically for the duration of your trip.
What is greywater, and how should it be managed?
Greywater is wastewater from your sinks and showers. It must be collected in a sealed tank and disposed of at a designated dump station.
How often do I need to get my vehicle certified for self-containment?
Self-containment certification is valid for 4 years. After this period, your vehicle must be recertified to ensure it still complies with current regulations.
Can I retrofit my vehicle to meet self-containment standards?
Yes, many vehicles can be retrofitted with necessary systems, such as greywater tanks, freshwater storage, and upgraded electrical systems to comply with the 2023 standards.
Do solar panels count toward the electrical requirements for certification?
Yes, solar panels are a common solution for meeting the off-grid power requirements of self-containment certification, as long as they can provide sufficient energy for all systems.
How do I schedule an inspection for self-containment certification?
You can schedule an inspection through our website or by contacting our team directly. We’ll assess your vehicle’s compliance with the 2023 standards and guide you through any necessary upgrades.