Frequently Asked Questions about Buying a Motorhome in NZ

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying a Motorhome in NZ

Here you'll find answers to the most common questions we receive about choosing, buying, and owning a CI Motorhome in New Zealand.

What is the most important thing to know about motorhome payloads?

The most critical factor is ensuring your motorhome's chassis can legally handle the weight you'll be carrying. If you plan to use a rear garage, a standard light chassis (3500kg GVM) is almost guaranteed to be overweight. You will need a heavy chassis (4400kg GVM),  which provides a payload of around 1000kg,  to avoid significant fines and ensure your insurance is valid in case of an accident.

Should I buy an automatic or a manual motorhome?

We strongly recommend buying an automatic motorhome. They can also be driven in a manual mode if preferred, are easier for more people to drive, and have a higher resale value. All our motorhomes are automatic/manual.

What is the most common size for a motorhome?

A 7.4-metre motorhome is by far the most sought-after size. While some believe a smaller 6.3-metre vehicle is easier to drive- this is not correct . 
The 7.4-metre models offer a significantly more comfortable living space that owners prefer.  So driving a 7.4 metre motorhome is the same as driving a smaller motorhome .

What are the most popular bed layouts?

The most popular layouts are either two single beds (which can convert to a double) or a fixed central island bed at the rear. These designs allow for easy access to the bathroom at night without disturbing your partner. Layouts with a corner "French bed" are no longer popular and have been discontinued in our range due to their impracticality.

Why should I buy from CI Motorhomes NZ (Walkabout Sales)?

We are a Licensed Motorhome Dealer with over 26 years of trusted experience in New Zealand. Buying from an established, financially secure dealership protects you and your investment. We have built our reputation on trust and past sales, ensuring you are not dealing with an unlicensed or unrecognized seller.

Why is the Fiat Ducato chassis recommended for motorhomes?

The Fiat Ducato is the most trusted platform in the industry, used for over 85% of motorhomes sold in Europe. It features a purpose-built motorhome chassis with a wider rear axle for superior road stability. All our Fiat Ducato 7.4 metre motorhomes with a garage are on the heavy chassis 4400kg gvm which gives you a payload  of 1000kg  and are all  Fiat Ducato 180hp engines .Fiat also offers a comprehensive worldwide warranty, and its popularity ensures excellent resale value.

What makes the CI Motorhome brand a good choice?

CI has 35 years of experience manufacturing motorhomes in Italy, producing over 6,500 vehicles per year. This scale and experience mean you get the latest in European design, technology, and proven reliability. Key features include double-glazed windows and thick 75mm floors for better insulation.
They are built in europe for cold  conditions , so well insulated for new zealand conditions.
Come and see us first you will not be dissapointed .

What warranty is included with a new CI Motorhome?

New motorhomes come with a 2-year mechanical warranty from Fiat and a 5-year body warranty against water leaks. To keep the warranty valid, you must complete all required servicing on time (yearly or every 20,000km for the mechanical warranty, and yearly for the body checks). Body checks must be performed  every 12 months otherwise no warranty as per terms and conditions.

How can I get spare parts for my CI Motorhome?

Ci Motorhomes NZ have a large parts warehouse in nz where a number of parts are in stock .If not we order spare parts directly from the factory in Italy. If the part is in stock, it will be delivered to New Zealand via sea freight, which typically takes about three months. All spare parts can be ordered direct on ci motorhomes nz website .

What is the payment process if my motorhome needs to be ordered?

We offer a secure, staged payment plan. A $10,000 deposit is required to place the order. A second installment is due when the motorhome is built (approx. 8 weeks later), and the final payment is due upon its arrival in New Zealand.

How can I be sure my deposit is safe?

CI Motorhomes NZ (Walkabout Sales) is a debt-free, financially sound company. Upon request, we can provide a letter from our bank to verify our financial standing, giving you complete peace of mind when you place your order.

How long can I freedom camp with the standard solar and battery system?

You can typically freedom park for 5 to 7 days. Our motorhomes come standard with a 120-watt solar panel and a 100-amp AGM house battery. For more power, we can easily upgrade your system with a Lithium battery and and MPPT solar regulator.

Do your motorhomes meet all New Zealand standards?

Yes. Upon arrival in New Zealand, every motorhome is professionally certified for gas, electrical, and self-containment standards, and is registered for the road.

Is paint protection available?

Yes, we are the only motorhome company to offer Duraseal paint protection as an optional extra. This treatment protects the fibreglass body, eliminates the need for polishing, and is guaranteed for the life of the motorhome. We offer this to our customers at a discounted price.

Can a towbar be fitted?

Yes, all our vehicles are capable of having a towbar fitted with a maximum towing capacity of 1500kg. We can arrange this at our discounted price. Important: You should not tow anything with a new diesel vehicle for the first 4,000km.

Can you help with motorhome insurance?

Yes. We can arrange the best possible insurance coverage on the market for you at the time of sale. This includes an agreed-value policy for 5 years, which we provide at our cost price to you as a valued customer.