What is a self-contained motor caravan?

A self-contained motor caravan is designed to completely meet the ablutionary and sanitary needs of the occupants for a minimum of three days. Fresh water for drinking and cooking is stored in tanks. Waste water is collected in waste water tanks and disposed of via a dump station. Self-contained vehicles protects the environment from indiscriminate dumping of waste, and gives members more freedom when travelling.

Why get certified?

A self-containment certificate provides local and regional councils with a way to recognise that a vehicle poses minimal risk to the environment and public health. That way they are able to accommodate motor caravans at reserves and other areas where there are limited or no external facilities.

Without self containment, the environmental and public health problems caused by motor caravans will become unacceptable, and will result in councils and government placing increasing restrictions on the use of motor caravans.

It is also a requirement of joining the NZMCA that new members certify their vehicle within three months of joining; purchasing or completing the modifications to their vehicle.

Self-Containment Certification Scheme:

The NZ Motor Caravan Association was the motivating force behind the development of the NZ Standard for Self Containment of Motor Caravans and Caravans (NZS 5465:2001).

Certification to the NZ Standard is free for NZMCA members. Vehicles are assessed by accredited self-containment testing officers at the owner's request and must meet the minimum requirements set out in the NZS 5465:2001 to obtain a certificate. The certificates are valid for four years and are transferable should the vehicle be sold during that period.

The contact details for self-containment officers in your area can be found on this website and are also published in the NZMCA Handbook issued to members.

The NZ Standard: NZS 5465:2001

The NZMCA have put together a summary of the minimum requirements to certify your self contained motor caravan. Click on the Responsible Camper image or here for a copy of the summary. 

To purchase the full standard - NZS 5465:2001 Self Containment of Motor Caravans and Caravans - please visit www.standards.co.nz and enter in the keyword '5465:2001'.

Contact your local Self Containment Officer for inspection.