For some, the idea of traveling around a country in a motorhome is a distant dream, but for one couple, it has become a reality. Together with their beloved Burmese cat, Cino, they are embracing the lifestyle many can only imagine. Andrew and Leanne Davidson, who eloped 11 years ago (think Wanaka, helicopters and Coromandel Peak, but that’s a story for another time!), left their home in Palmerston North and have been on the road since July 2024.
From Self-Employed to Self-Exploring
Before embarking on their journey, both Andrew and Leanne were self-employed. Andrew ran a lawn-mowing business, while Leanne worked as a Pilates instructor and managed rental properties. With family ties in Manawatu, their lives were deeply rooted in Palmerston North. Despite this, they were ready to pursue a life on the road. Renting out their home on an annual basis, they left their belongings in storage, giving themselves the option to return – but with no immediate plans to do so.
“The house in Palmerston North gives us options for the future,” Leanne says. But with the open road ahead, their adventure may lead them to discover a new place to settle.
A Dream Long in the Making
Their motorhome adventure wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. The couple had been dreaming and planning this lifestyle for nearly two decades. Over the years, they used a previous motorhome for shorter getaways but being self-employed made extended vacations impossible. “This is not a holiday,” she emphasises, “this is a lifestyle filled with adventure.”
Selling their businesses was an emotional challenge, especially as they had each built strong connections with clients over 20 years. But with a clear goal in mind, they were ready to take the leap. “We follow other people doing this on social media, and we’ve met people that have shown us it’s possible.”
Choosing the Perfect Mobile Home
The decision to travel by motorhome was easy. They had loved their previous motorhome for its layout, and their current model, the Traillite Coromandel, ticked all the right boxes. With the capacity to be off-grid for up to 10 days, a comfortable North-South bed layout, and a U-shaped lounge with views out the back window, it’s ideal for their adventures. The fact that it’s New Zealand-made added to its appeal.
“We tow a Suzuki Jimny with our bikes packed in the back, so we can explore even further,” she explains. The TrailLite motorhome also boasts an inflatable boat, providing opportunities to fish in some of New Zealand’s most picturesque spots.
Starting their journey in the South Island was a deliberate choice. “It’s a bit like jumping in the deep end. It really feels like we’re in another country down here,” she says, marvelling at the snow-capped mountains, aqua blue lakes, and rugged coastlines.
The Challenges of Life on the Road
The transition from a structured life to one of freedom and exploration came quickly. “Once we hit the road, we still had a lot of admin to sort out,” Leanne admits, recalling the challenges of finding places to park and complete tasks like printing documents. Using laundromats was another adjustment, but it became an opportunity to enjoy a café and a scone while waiting for the laundry to finish.
Budgeting has also been an important part of the transition. While some days they spend nothing, other days can be more expensive. Tracking their weekly and monthly expenses has given them a clearer picture of how much they need. “It feels cost-effective because so much of what we do is free – like biking, hiking, and fishing.”
Living in the Moment
Life in the motorhome is full-time for the couple, who rarely stay at campgrounds and prefer to remain self-contained. Even when visiting relatives, they sleep in their motorhome, appreciating the comfort of their own bed. While house-sitting may be an option in the future, for now, they are enjoying the freedom of their new lifestyle.
A moment that solidified their decision to live this way came while fishing from their inflatable boat at Ōkiwi Bay. “The entire day was perfect – just how we had dreamed,” Leanne recalls. They caught their dinner, cooked it on the BBQ, and ended the day watching the Tour de France from the comfort of their motorhome. “Some days are just too easy!”
Documenting the Journey
Sharing their adventures on social media has added another dimension to their travels. “I’ve always loved sharing my stories,” she says, adding that Facebook has been her go-to platform. The positive comments from followers have been heartwarming, and it’s a wonderful way to stay connected with people. Though there are challenges – like finding the time and reception to post regularly – she enjoys sharing their journey with others.
Advice for Aspiring Adventurers
For others nearing retirement and considering a lifestyle change, her advice is simple: “If there’s something you want to do, make a plan and commit to it. No one ever said they wish they worked longer!” She and Andrew made a vision board three years before their departure and set monthly goals to keep on track. Their ultimate focus? Health. “Health is the most important thing we have, and you need it to do the things you want to do.”
The Joy of the South Island
Though they have only explored the northern third of the South Island so far, the couple has already found endless joy in its natural beauty. From ocean vistas to snow-capped mountains and charming local eateries, every day brings new experiences. They plan their adventures based on the weather, even finding ways to enjoy rainy days by visiting local pools.
Living in the motorhome has also brought them closer together. “Without the pressures of our old life, we play together every day and have fun. Our relationship is like it was when we first met,” she says. Even the unexpected challenges, like dealing with moisture in the winter, have been managed with good planning and a sense of humour.
Looking Ahead
For now, their plan is to continue exploring the South Island before heading back to the North Island. They have plenty of adventures ahead, and the freedom to adapt their plans as they go. Whether it’s discovering a new favourite trail or revisiting a beloved spot, their life on the road has exceeded their expectations.
“We’ve realised we don’t need a lot of stuff,” she reflects. “You don’t need to keep working to be rich. Traveling in our motorhome has made our life richer.”
