#Buy a campervan New Zealand

[umichenginabroad]

New Zealand Part 1 (Week 11)

One of the beautiful things about studying at UNSW is that during week 6 of our studies, we get a flexibility week where the majority of courses don’t hold class and students are given the chance to catch up with schoolwork, get ahead, or do nothing and just relax! My hostel-mates and I knew about this opportunity from the day we got here, so a big trip was always in the works. We even knew that we all wanted to spend the time in New Zealand. The only problem? There’s 18 of us living in the hostel together and we’ve had enough trouble planning trips for just 5 or 6 people, let alone 18. Everyone had a different vision of what a trip to New Zealand could look like between camping, or renting cars and staying in AirBnBs, or living out of campervans. Needless to say, the trip planning was procrastinated all through the 4 weeks of summer and another 4 weeks of term 1. Once in a while someone would say, “Guys, we really have to plan this. Plane tickets are getting expensive!” and they’d be met with more approval and support than a professor who has suggested extending a homework deadline. But, as expected with our group, no action would be taken. Until one person sits down and buys themself a roundtrip flight to New Zealand, nobody is going anywhere. Soon enough, after intense procrastination and discussion, tickets were bought, plans were made, the group of 14 (four couldn’t make it) had divided into two campervans and two cars (who would be staying in AirBnBs), and I was sitting on a plane to Queenstown. 

^^ Landing in Queenstown

Queenstown may not be among New Zealand’s 20 largest cities, but it is renowned for its adventure sports and stunning scenery, earning it the nickname "Adventure Capital of the World," as my friend Elizabeth would say. Our adventures in Queenstown, however, were put on hold until the end of the trip as we had a road trip planned that would take us up north to Christchurch and then back down to the Adventure Capital. So, on our first day there we picked up our car rentals and headed to Fiordland National Park for a quick hike. The greenest plants, mossiest rocks, and most colorful mushrooms riddled the paths and made our short hike one of the most memorable. 

^^ Some New Zealand Flora

I also felt a lot safer hiking in New Zealand compared to Australia. New Zealand has none of the snakes that Australia is infamous for and has an almost negligible amount of dangerous spiders compared to the numbers Australia boasts! With our glow worm cave tour waiting for us in Te Anau, we had to get back on the road quickly. Lucky for us, there are worse places to be driving than one of the most naturally beautiful countries in the world where mountains surround you in every direction and lakes bluer than the sky itself pop up out of the blue (pun intended) every few moments. We weren’t allowed to take pictures in the glow worm caves, but imagine yourself sitting on a boat in a pitch black cave with little blue/green specks scattering the ceiling. That was pretty much it! It was interesting to learn about the glow worms themselves – they glow brighter the hungrier they are (to better attract flies) and they’re actually larvae, not worms, so they just need to survive long enough to turn into gnats and reproduce. You may be wondering why I’m sharing so much detail about random worms. Well, as a recent trivia night attendee (two weeks in a row), I see every random fact as a future topic in trivia. You can thank me later.

^^ Just the average roadside view while driving along the west side of the South Island!

Milford Sound was next on the list. Just a two hour drive from Te Anau with the option of a bus service to shuttle you there and back, Milford Sound is a large fiord stretching 9 miles (or, 15 km should I say) to the open sea. Once there, a boat cruise takes you down to the ocean and back while passing waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and some popular scuba diving destinations. Milford Sound was highly recommended as an activity on our itinerary, and it truly lived up to the hype! From the stops on the bus ride to the scenic cruise, I was in a constant state of awe that I will never forget. The rest of the trip was just as exciting, but I’ll cover it in the next post! Until then, Cheers!

^^ The car gang on our way to Milford Sound

^^ A snippet of Milford Sound

David Bayer

Biomedical Engineering

University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia

[campercocampervanshirelimited]

Motorhomes and campervans are like travelling homes that let you go wherever you want without leaving the comforts of home behind. You get more space and luxury with a motorhome, like a small house that moves. With a campervan, you get a more simple and compact living space that's easy to drive around. This article will break down the differences between motorhomes and campervans, helping you understand what each one offers. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of what suits your travel needs and preferences best, whether you're considering a Christchurch motorhome hire or a Queenstown campervan hire.

Size and Comfort

Motorhome

Motorhomes are generally bigger and offer more space and comfort. They are like little apartments on wheels, with separate areas for sleeping, cooking, and relaxing. A motorhome might be the best choice if you're planning a long trip or have a big family. Many travellers opt for motorhome hire in Christchurch or other popular locations to enjoy a roomy and comfortable experience.

2. Campervan

Campervans are smaller and more compact. They usually have just what you need without extra frills. Campervans are great for couples or small groups who want to travel light and are happy with less space. South Island campervan hire, for example, is a popular choice for those looking to explore on a budget.

Features and Facilities 1. Motorhome

A motorhome usually has a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, and other amenities like TV and air conditioning. It's like having a small house you can drive around! If you're looking for a comfortable and spacious journey, this might be the right option.

2. Campervan

A campervan is more basic. There might be a simple kitchenette and sleeping area, but usually no separate bathroom. Queenstown campervan hire, or similar options, is perfect for those who love the idea of simple living on the road. If you are a fan of minimalism and want to be closer to nature, a campervan offers a more raw and authentic travelling experience, giving you just what you need and nothing more.

Cost 1. Motorhome With all those extras, motorhomes usually cost more to rent or buy. Fuel costs might also be higher because motorhomes are larger and heavier. If comfort and luxury are your top priorities, and you're willing to spend a bit more, a motorhome could be your ideal home on wheels.

2. Campervan

Campervans are often a more affordable choice. They are smaller and lighter, so they usually use less fuel. This might be the way to go if you're travelling on a tight budget. A campervan can offer a fantastic, budget-friendly adventure that still keeps you comfortable.

Flexibility 1. Motorhome

Motorhomes are bigger, so driving or parking in busy areas might be harder. They are great for staying in one place for a while and really settling in. A motorhome offers stability and space to unwind at your own pace if your journey is more about leisurely exploration and less about constant movement.

Campervan

Campervans are more nimble and easy to drive around. If you're planning to move from place to place frequently and explore different sites, a campervan might be a better choice. This feature makes them perfect for travellers who crave spontaneous exploration and adventure.

Conclusion

Choosing between a motorhome and a campervan depends on your needs, budget, and travel style. Think about what's most important to you, whether it's space, comfort, cost, or flexibility, and that will guide your choice. And if you're considering exploring the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand, why not check out CamperCo for an unforgettable journey? They offer great options to suit every traveller's needs and will make your adventure on wheels an experience to remember. For detailed information, visit this website- Camperco.co.nz.

FAQs

Is it easier to drive a campervan or a motorhome?

Campervans are generally easier to drive due to their smaller size and more car-like handling. They're similar to driving a larger van, which many people find manageable. Motorhomes, especially the bigger ones, can be more challenging to drive. They require getting used to the size, turning radius, and manoeuvrability, especially in tight spaces or on narrow roads.

Which one is better for a short weekend trip, a motorhome or a campervan?

For a short weekend trip, a campervan is often more convenient as they are quicker to set up and pack up. They're smaller, so you can park them more easily, even in smaller campsites or urban areas. You have more amenities with a motorhome, but for a short trip, you might not need all the extra space and facilities.

How many people can comfortably sleep in a motorhome and a campervan?

Motorhomes can usually sleep more people, often 4 to 6, because they're bigger. Campervans usually sleep 2 to 4 people. Think about how many people will travel with you and how much space you need to sleep comfortably.

[educationinaustralia]

New Zealand Travel Tips

Traveling in New Zealand can be a truly unforgettable experience with its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and adventurous activities. Here are some tips to make the most of your trip.

Plan Ahead: Research and plan your itinerary well in advance, as New Zealand offers a plethora of attractions and activities. Decide which regions you want to visit, the activities you want to try, and book accommodations and transportation accordingly.

Rent a Car or Campervan: Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore New Zealand at your own pace. Renting a car or campervan allows you to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations and scenic viewpoints that might not be easily accessible by public transport.

Be Mindful of Weather: New Zealand's weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountainous regions. Pack for all seasons, including rain gear and warm layers. Check the weather forecast regularly and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Respect Nature and Wildlife: New Zealand prides itself on its pristine environment and unique wildlife. Follow the "Leave No Trace" principles, avoid disturbing animals, and respect the rules in national parks and reserves.

Explore Both Islands: New Zealand consists of two main islands—North Island and South Island. Each offers a distinct experience. Don't limit yourself to just one; if time permits, explore both for a diverse and well-rounded trip.

Try Adventure Sports: New Zealand is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. Consider trying activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, white-water rafting, hiking, and skiing (in the winter) to make your trip more thrilling.

Taste Local Cuisine: Don't miss the chance to try traditional New Zealand dishes and local produce. From seafood to delicious lamb, the food scene has a lot to offer.

Respect Maori Culture: The Maori culture is an essential part of New Zealand's identity. Learn about their customs, heritage, and language (Te Reo Maori), and show respect when visiting sacred sites.

Purchase a Prepaid SIM Card: To stay connected throughout your trip, consider buying a prepaid SIM card. This will allow you to access maps, search for information, and communicate with others easily. https://www.aecglobal.com.au/

Be Safe in the Outdoors: If you're planning outdoor activities like hiking or trekking, inform someone about your plans, take sufficient water and snacks, wear appropriate footwear, and be prepared for any weather changes.

Check Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to enter New Zealand. Check the visa requirements well in advance and apply accordingly.

Carry Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, some remote places and smaller establishments may only accept cash. Have some local currency on hand for such situations.

Remember, New Zealand is a country of natural wonders, and taking the time to immerse yourself in its beauty and culture will lead to an enriching travel experience. Enjoy your trip!

[jdidolau]

169 - 171. jonadio go clothes shopping

[Delicious first meal in New Zealand, clear!]

[Now they’re about to go buy some camping supplies and warm coats!]

---

[They arrive at a camping equipment store]

JOJO Oh, we should buy a tent!

DIO Jojo, we’ll be staying in a campervan. We don’t need a tent.

JOJO But you’ve never gone camping before! You might as well get the experience of sleeping in a tent while we’re at it.

DIO I’ll pass, thank you.

JOJO Even just for one night? I’ll help you pitch the tent~

DIO (Snicker) Careful with your words, Jojo.

JOJO ...Ah. (Snicker) I meant it, though. I’ll help you. But we can get one of those pop-up ones too, if you’d prefer. Setting a tent up can be quite confusing.

DIO Are you implying that I, Dio, won’t be able to pitch a tent?

JOJO Careful with your words, Dio. (Grin)

DIO Oh, come off it. You know what, just to prove to you that pitching... I mean, setting up a tent surely won’t be that difficult, let’s go buy one.

JOJO If you need help, you can always ask me, Dio~ (Grin)

DIO Oh, shut it. Don’t be so immature, Jojo.

JOJO You’re the one who started it first.

DIO You have no proof.

JOJO Editors, if the rating permits it, could you please keep this part in? Just so I could show it to Dio and give him the proof he requested.

DIO Excuse you!

JOJO Oh, look, Dio, this tent looks good! Let’s buy this one.

DIO Don’t ignore me! Just to spite you, I’ll ask them not to put it in. Editors, please don’t put that part in~

[Sorry, Dio... We kept it in...]

JOJO Ah, the coats are over there!

DIO Hmm...

[Fashionista Dio looks over everything with a critical eye!]

JOJO This one looks quite warm.

DIO No, this one would look better.

JOJO Isn’t it the same?

DIO Obviously not. This one would go better with your eyes.

JOJO If you say so, Dio. It is quite warm, though! I’ll get this one, then.

DIO Nonsense. That’s only the first one you’ve tried. Try this one too.

JOJO You know we still have to go check in at a hotel for the night, right?

DIO We’ll have time. Now go try this one and this one on.

[Dio takes good care of Jojo~]

[Dio also chooses a few coats for himself]

JOJO I think I’ll still get the first one you picked out for me, Dio. Have you decided on yours yet?

DIO No, not yet.

JOJO You’re not going to buy all of this, are you?

DIO What? Of course not!

JOJO Should we buy you another suitcase, just to be safe~?

DIO Oh, shut it, Jojo. I think this one should suffice. We should buy gloves too.

JOJO Oh, these look nice! Dio, look! It’s a knit hat with ear flaps that doubles as a scarf!

DIO Quaint.

JOJO I’ll buy one for you too, so we can match!

DIO No, thank you. I already have a hat and a scarf.

JOJO I bet you do. But not this one! Here.

DIO ...At least get me the light gray one.

JOJO Here you go~

DIO Maybe we should buy some wool socks, since we’re here... The nights might be even colder.

JOJO You could always just layer your socks on top of each other.

DIO (Grimace) That better not be what you’re thinking of doing with yours.

JOJO What? It’s efficient!

DIO And absolutely atrocious. Here. Get these socks. We should probably get you some jeans too. I bet you only brought the one pair.

JOJO We have a washer in the house we’ll be staying in in a few days.

DIO Jojo, if you’re going to be wearing the same pair of jeans for the three whole days we’ll be camping, you’re staying at the back of the campervan.

JOJO But you’ll be lonely at the front.

DIO I think it’ll be much better actually. It’ll be quiet.

JOJO I think you’ll miss me.

DIO I doubt it.

JOJO If you start missing me from the front of the car, just call for me~

DIO Just get the jeans, Jojo.

JOJO (Snicker) Alright, alright. Just one extra pair, though.

DIO Three pairs; one for each day.

JOJO Just one will be enough.

DIO Two pairs, then, if you insist on wearing those again.

JOJO I’ll have them washed later. You worry too much~

DIO We should get you some shoes too.

JOJO I already have boots and sneakers, I’m fine. ...Are you sure you’re not just browsing for yourself?

DIO One pair of shoes isn’t enough, Jojo.

JOJO How many pairs did you bring, Dio?

DIO Enough. 

( . . . )

(Silence...)

DIO ...I brought two pairs of boots and three pairs of sneakers. And two pairs of slippers.

JOJO Slippers?

DIO For when we stay at the house, obviously.

JOJO Oh, I didn’t bring any...

DIO That’s why I brought two.

JOJO Oh. Thank you, Dio! But we really don’t need to buy more shoes, though. You have more than enough, don’t you agree? Or should we buy that extra suitcase~?

DIO ...Fine. Let’s go.

[fabr0thekneeman-blog2]

New Zealand camper sale

With this type of vehicle, Travelcars offers not only the buy-back guarantee, but also a 30-day money-back guarantee, free help with the organizational steps of a car purchase (you can find out more about this in point 5), a service that is for you the sale of your camper van as well as a large Facebook network that can help you with Maui campervans the self-organized sale. Through us you will receive an exclusive NZ $ 100 discount on the purchase or rental of your car / campervan. All you have to do is redeem the following voucher. With Work-Travel-Fun New Zealand you are definitely in good hands. The company is run by former backpackers who are very familiar with New Zealand. Camping equipment for two is included. Here you will find an overview of the New Zealand campers, which are still compact but have a shower and toilet on board. An existing registration of the vehicle for the transfer (see rego chapter). Engine - Run the engine a little before and after your test drive to hear noise or smoke. Online at the New Zealand Transport Agency, the Post Office and other locations (list). → Click on the individual headings to see the explanations. As a seller, the process is similar. You can arrange for the transfer to be carried out online at the New Zealand Transport Agency. You can find a helpful checklist here. The whole process is in turn possible with agents such as Swiss Post with a form (MR13A).

Make the foreseeable costs transparent to the new owner (new tires, new timing belts, service, registration, etc.). That brings good karma. Here you can read my personal experiences about the New Zealand campers. Even if I consider our trips with the camper to be the most beautiful, I personally would not travel through the country in winter in New Zealand. The reason for this is that it would simply be too cold for me !. The campers in New Zealand have quite good heating, but the nights can still be quite cold.

We were very happy from the first to the last day of the trip.

In addition, some New Zealand camper vans have black-tinted windows.

It's in Christchurch the offer is significantly lower than in Auckland.

Hopefully her photos can not only be the beauty of the Landscape, but also convey their enthusiasm for this small country.

How to buy a campervan in New Zealand

The first 10-12 providers can be seen every day. Hello, I am always renting a motorhome. How often do you really have time to sit in the camper and really drive away and running costs also come up (repairs and so on, and always go to a garage first !?) Then better rent a camper. That's why you should take a look at the history of the car. Sometimes you get a few open bills for the new car. At motorweb.co.nz you can check whether any debts of the previous owner are outstanding or the car has been reported stolen. Even if you rent a small camper in New Zealand, you can easily get this badge by taking a portable chemical toilet with you. If you do not have the badge, you will face severe penalties.

Spend a day in Hobbiton yourself and drink a mead in the "Green Dragon Inn". If you discover New Zealand with a campervan, you can also book suitable accessories. For example, families have various child seats available, and navigation devices can also be rented. If you have sufficiently explored the North Island, you should rent a motorhome and get to know New Zealand's South Island. Ask your motorhome or book available vehicles cheap and direct.

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Buy New Zealand campervan

However, the distances are shorter and the number of buyers is smaller. How much I paid for the campervan and what did my trip through New Zealand cost in total in my post “How much does 3 months New Zealand cost? “Read in detail. A little bit of luck is always with you when buying and selling a campervan.

New Zealand is a country with countless natural wonders and you will not be able to get out of amazement. Whether man-made sights in Auckland or Lake Tekabo on the South Island of New Zealand, everyone gets their money's worth and is rewarded with priceless impressions. If you travel New Zealand with your motorhome, you should definitely plan new zealand motorhome several weeks for the trip, because the country has countless attractions to offer. These naturally include cities like Auckland, Queenstown, Wellington and Christchurch, which offer an insight into the life and culture of the residents. We understand if it is too unsafe for you to buy a car on the Internet only on the basis of descriptions. You can also buy your vehicle ticket (for the ferry) from us when you book your camper. Just type into the comment box.

The highlights of the New Zealand Islands

You can stay in one place for 3 days without leaving garbage or sewage (black and gray). In short, campers must have a chemical toilet and a waste water tank on board. So that you also know what you should take with you when you travel with your camper in New Zealand, we have created a packing list for you. Here, of course, we learned from our own experience and brought you all the important things together.

Take a look at it and then decide.

Queenstown is on the edge of the New Zealand Alps and is the starting point of the Southern Scenic Route.

Before you buy a campervan, it is advisable to check the vehicle and the owner.

Do you want to rent a camper in New Zealand? Then let yourself be told that the whole thing can go into the money very quickly. Fortunately, we have some useful tips for you on how to rent a cheap camper in New Zealand. Read on to find out more. If you already have your apartment with you, including a filled refrigerator, in your motorhome, you have the freedom to stop at every beautiful spot and spontaneously prepare a meal or even a cup of coffee. I have already recommended this option to my brother, who also wants to go to New Zealand after graduating from high school. At the end of your trip there is the option that the providers buy your campervan again.

If something is wrong, have it repaired as soon as possible. For a list of features that your campervan has to fulfill, see e.g. at the Transport Service Tasmania. Before you buy a campervan, it is advisable to do a check-up of the vehicle and the owner. If you are a buyer, use the second part of the form (Transfer Application) to go to the local office of the Transport Department. You can only go online if you have an Australian driver's license. Suitable for tall people due to the wooden slat construction and the spring mattress. All New Zealand campervans have 2-3 seats in the driver's compartment.

[semdeusnocoracao]

How to buy a campervan in New Zealand

Pay the fee at the counter and receive a current proof. Did you find a campervan and agreed on a price with the seller? Perfect, then nothing stands in the way of buying. The same rule applies here as for the number of kilometers. In addition to a valid WOF, you should also pay attention to a current registration. At best, both WOF and registration are valid for as long as possible, which saves you a lot of taxes. Of course, an existing bed is great, but there are also some who only install their bed on site. Then the costs for tools and martial must also be included in the purchase. New Zealand has no compulsory liability insurance. The best thing about the pre-sale campervan? You take no risk! If the vehicle does not meet your requirements on site, you can easily withdraw from the purchase and get your down payment completely. b) car markets for locals are cheaper; in Auckland around Sundays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Ellerslie Racecourse (sellers pay 20 NZD), in Christchurch the "Canterbury Car Fair" opens on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 12 noon in the Middleton district at Addington Raceway. d) The technical condition of the purchased car. Unfortunately, many New Zealand enthusiasts always have the experience of being left empty-handed for short-term inquiries for a New Zealand motorhome. Campers in New Zealand are booked well in advance and neither a motorhome nor a campervan are available at short notice in the summer months. For more information, see my article on renting a camper in New Zealand. Wild camping is not allowed everywhere in New Zealand. Because a lot of rubbish has been dumped in the past, some cities have set up “no camping” zones.

Comparison: camper / car rental or buy?

Usually a lot more.

To protect yourself from such nasty surprises, you can do various check-ups online at the New Zealand Transport Agency.

>

The reason for this is that it would simply be too cold for me!

A precise inspection of the list of accessories is important.

There are several car markets in Auckland and the Auckland City Car Fair - both great ways to buy a campervan. You shouldn't forget that buying and selling can take a few days each. It would be a shame if you couldn't spend this time on the street. no you do not need to. There is no question that New Zealand is best explored with your own vehicle. However, buying a car or campervan on site does not only take up a lot of time and nerves that you would rather Britz campervan spend . Many kiwifruit often sell the pig in a poke, and even a backpacker has literally stayed on the street with a heap of junk.

The buyback option is a rescue network for backpackers who do not manage to sell the car again in time or do not want to worry about it. All partner workshops do their best to repay up to 50% of the purchase price. The same applies, of course, when it comes to sales - in Auckland your sales offer will face much more competition and therefore less interest! Counter-cyclical travel or at least a sale of the car in Christchurch and then a domestic flight to Auckland make sense. You don't want to miss any blog posts and take a look behind the scenes? Then sign up for the newsletter. You are welcome to add your further wishes to the camper request. Our partner travel agency will then make you an appropriate offer. When traveling through New Zealand in a motorhome, you will simply feel the freedom. Wild camping in New Zealand is inexpensive on the one hand, and on the other hand you can get to indescribably beautiful places such as here right on the water. Fantastically beautiful landscapes are waiting to be explored by you with the camper in New Zealand. In summer, however, it is winter in New Zealand and it can get quite cold when traveling through New Zealand in a motorhome. Of course there is no bad weather, just unsuitable clothing - especially in New Zealand. But you still have to know that it can get very cold in autumn and especially winter in New Zealand. Then I especially can not recommend a trip in a campervan through New Zealand. And even in a well-equipped motorhome with heating, it was too cold for me personally.

[vscograam]

Campervan hire Christchurch NZ

Often other travellers or residents of New Zealand claim that Christchurch is a desolate city that had nothing to offer after the earthquake. In fact, it is larger but much less touristy than Queenstown, and its architecture makes it probably one of the most "English" cities in the country. The traces of the 2011 earthquake are still clearly visible today. These include places listed as Christchurch Cathedral and parts of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. These have not been built or renovated to date - you can still take a look at them. Overall, the city exudes a sometimes almost macabre charm that you can hardly escape.

Since the city centre was particularly affected by the earthquake, the Re:START shopping area invites you to an exciting walk and a nice party. It is a constantly growing project, in which several fashion, literature and home accessories shops as well as restaurants and bars have been arranged in colourful containers. In the old university district you will not only find a wide range of cultural activities, but also the recently opened Art Gallery with old European paintings and fascinating exhibitions and installations by New Zealand artists. The restored tram, whose history dates back to 1880, runs through the city centre. In one section there are small cafes and bars lovingly arranged with a wide range of gastronomic offerings. Just like in Auckland, the botanical gardens are worth a stroll. There is also a large Farmer's Market, where not only local farmers offer their produce. Such markets are actually always recommended if you have time, because there you can buy not only the famous Manuka honey in all its varieties, but also fresh fruit and vegetables, which are often cheaper here than in fairly expensive supermarkets.

NZM Rentals Phone: +64 3 669 2019 Address: Metropolis, 1 Courthouse Lane, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand Website: https://www.newzealandmotorhome.com/campervan-hire-christchurch-nz/

Resources: 

https://posts.gle/uWYvH https://newzealandmotorhomeandcampervan.business.site/posts/7860033265342421884?hl=en

https://twitter.com/nzmrentals/status/1231062268101574656 https://www.facebook.com/nzmrentals/posts/123384565889969 https://www.pinterest.com.au/nzcampervans/campervan-hire-christchurch-nz/

[jdidolau]

153 - 157. ((for this post, the staff's dialogue and captions in square brackets mostly lifted from bts bon voyage season 1 and 4, the latter of which is where i got most of the inspiration for this arc)) (note: O/S = off-screen the small parts in italics are little previews/sneak peeks for future episodes)

PHANTOM BLOOD BON VOYAGE EPISODE 1

DIO Hm? You’re starting the shoot in the car? (Peek) (Peek) Hello~

JOJO Oh, hello! (Peek)

DIO Come to think of it, this will be the first time we’ll be showing our separate apartments, right, Jojo?

JOJO Right! We were both still living in the same apartment last time! Ah, I hope mine isn’t too messy…

STAFF (O/S) So today, we’re leaving on a trip!

[PB is going on a trip!]

JOJO Wow!

(Clap) (Clap)

STAFF (O/S) This trip is special for you both... It’s about to be 3 years since your debut, right?

DIO Yes, that’s right.

STAFF (O/S) You can think of this trip as an early gift for your 3rd anniversary!

DIO Ah...

JOJO Wow!

STAFF (O/S) You mentioned before that you wanted to go on a trip after the tour, just the two of you, correct?

JOJO That’s right.

STAFF (O/S) All the other times, you had managers and staff members to help you, since you went to these places to work. But, since you’re going on a real trip, we won’t be there to help you.

[PB will be 100% independent!]

STAFF (O/S) You have to do things on your own. From buying the tickets, paying for things... This is obvious.

DIO (Solemn)

JOJO (Excited)

STAFF (O/S) You will be doing all that yourselves.

JOJO We’ve never really done that before! (Chuckles)

STAFF (O/S) Of course, the most important thing. The destination... ...will be New Zealand! We prepared an itinerary for you, so you won’t have to worry and just enjoy the trip! You’ll be camping for two days, so you’ll be renting a campervan.

JOJO Oh! Since we’ll be in a campervan, the water will have to be rationed, right? So we won’t have a shower.

DIO Excuse me? (Grimace) (Displeased)

JOJO In the morning, why don’t we wash up in a river, Dio?

DIO (Grimace)

JOJO Just once?

DIO No. I’ll take the shower if you won’t, Jojo.

[But in the end...?]

JOJO Oh, wow, the water is freezing! (Laughs) Let’s wash our faces, Dio!

DIO Ugh...

JOJO Argh! Ahh! Ack! Ahh!

[Two splashes and it’s over!]

JOJO Ah, that’s refreshing! But goodness, it’s freezing!

[Dio touches the water...]

DIO (Grimace) I’m done washing my face too, Jojo.

[A crisp morning in a campervan]

[They’re both in a daze straight out of the van~]

[Just then, a dog comes to visit!]

[Jojo gets a sudden burst of energy!]

JOJO Oh, hello there! (Happy) (Excited)

DIO (Lifeless)

[They have a drink in the sunlight]

[This is what you guys have in mind, right?]

STAFF (O/S) Since you both like rides, we also planned a kart ride down a luge...

JOJO Oh! Like a racing kart? (Excited)

DIO Do we get to drive it? (Interested)

STAFF (O/S) Yes. But you’ll still have to follow the track.

[And that’s how they ended up racing!]

DIO You better catch up, Jojo!

[We’re happy that you’re so excited!]

JOJO Woohoo! Yeah!

STAFF (O/S) ...and also a ride on the Nevis Swing.

JOJO Oh! I’ve heard of that!

DIO Is that the one where you jump off that cliff? What was it, like 130 meters?

JOJO Yes! And you swing back and forth after you jump off! And there’s a bungee jump too! I’ve always wanted to try it!

[And his wish is granted!]

JOJO One, two - Always with you!

JOJO & DIO Phantom Blood!

JOJO WOOHOO!

[A swing ride 160 meters in the air!]

STAFF (O/S) We’ve also planned some more relaxing activities for you two. Like stargazing...

[A beautiful sight at the Lake Tekapo observatory!]

DIO Oh...

[We apologize for the low lighting]

JOJO Ah, it’s not showing up in the photos...

[Jojo starts singing Love, Lively]

JOJO I want to see you... I wanted to see you so much...

[Jojo’s beautiful voice in the midst of a beautiful view~]

[They can’t believe what they’re seeing]

JOJO It looks like it’s CG, doesn’t it? It’s almost unreal.

STAFF (O/S) ...and trekking...

DIO Ah, pardon me... Do you mean up a mountain? (Frowning) (Worried)

STAFF (O/S) Yes, you’ll be trekking up Mount Cook.

JOJO How high is it?

STAFF (O/S) The altitude is over 3,700 meters. But the path is fairly flat, and the trek only takes two hours.

DIO God...

[Already looking tired from imagining it...]

JOJO Dio, if you get tired, I’ll carry you!

[Strong Jojo to the rescue!]

DIO You better. It’s only two hours, right? I can handle two hours of walking.

DIO I regret this~

JOJO But look at this beautiful scenery Dio!

DIO It is quite a view, yes...

[With this scenery and PB, we could go anywhere!]

[They’re rendered speechless at the beautiful landscape]

STAFF (O/S) There’s also a helicopter tour...

[Off they go to see the snow~]

JOJO Oh, wow!

[They eat untrodden snow...]

[...and tumble around in it too!]

STAFF (O/S) ...and fishing as well.

JOJO Oh, I’ve never fished before... Have you, Dio?

DIO (Shake) (Shake) (Solemn)

JOJO We’ll have to do some research on the flight over then! I hope we catch something big!

[Will Jojo’s wish of a big catch come true?]

JOJO (Fling)

DIO Lake fishing is supposed to be difficult.

[They focus on fishing in complete silence]

JOJO We should see the aurora borealis!

DIO It’s the middle of summer, Jojo. We won’t be able to see it.

JOJO Oh, right... That’s a shame... (Sad) (Pout)

DIO Let’s just go on another trip in the winter.

[Kind leader compromises with his member!]

JOJO (Brightens) Really?! That sounds really nice, actually! Ah, but we’ll be staying in a campervan this time, right? But it will just be the two of us? That means we’ll have to drive... (Worried) It would be difficult to drive something that large, wouldn’t it?

STAFF (O/S) The roads will be clear, so you won’t have to worry too much. We’ll send you the route as well.

JOJO Ah, that’s good!

DIO It sounds like it’ll be a long drive, so we’ll swap every few hours, I suppose...

JOJO It should be fun! Like a road trip!

STAFF (O/S) We’ll send you all the details in a bit, but first, you both need to pack. We’ll give you both an hour to pack.

[brynandchristopher]

The (temporary) end of an era

Well, it’s certainly been a while since we last wrote. We apologize for the delay, we’ve been busy transitioning from New Zealand life to Australia in the last month or so, and then from Australia back to our homes in the last few days, and just haven’t gotten around to writing. But now we’re back! First and foremost, Chris and I are safe, happy, and healthy. It is a crazy time that we are living in right now, but so far we have remained physically unaffected by coronavirus and are keeping our fingers crossed that it remains that way. We are in good health and taking all of the necessary precautions to stay safe in this time of chaos and uncertainty.

In our last post, we had just bid Madeline farewell and were beginning the process of selling our van, Sweetie, in Christchurch. We gave ourselves ~2 weeks before departing to sell the van in hopes that would give us enough time to meet with prospective buyers and try to make some of our money back before taking off for Australia. In New Zealand, there is a bit of a boom and bust cycle in regards to van prices due to the major influx of backpackers at the beginning of the summer and mass exodus at the end of summer. Additionally, most backpackers take a similar route to the one we took - flying into Auckland, exploring the north island, heading down south, flying out of Christchurch - resulting in a huge supply of backpacker vans in Christchurch and not very much demand. We were aware of this cycle going into our trip and knew we wouldn’t get a full return on what we spent, but we were hopeful we could get at least half of our money back to put towards our next van in Australia. Our first few van showings were slightly disheartening. We received significant interest via buy/sell facebook pages and other websites where we posted ads, but when we met in person for test drives and viewings everyone seemed very nit-picky about small things that hadn’t mattered much to us. We soon realized that backpackers looking at vans at the end of the summer could afford to be selective because of how many vans were available to them at a low cost. We didn’t let them get us down though, and after 4 or 5 days of showings we met an Israeli couple around our age that was interested in buying Sweetie. Chris negotiated with them (definitely not my forté, Chris is the master haggler between the two of us) and we were able to get a little more than half of what we had spent. We spent a day driving around with them for a test drive, mechanical inspection, and eventually a transfer of ownership, and by that evening it was time for us to part with our beloved Sweetie. She was a real trooper and everything we could have asked for for our very first car, we felt lucky to have had no car problems for the whole 3 months (which cannot be said for many secondhand backpacker campervans). We were sad to see her go but happy to be leaving her in good hands for her next adventure :)

It was a relief to sell the van in the first few days of our arrival to Christchurch, but we soon realized we had a lot of time on our hands for the next 10 days without a vehicle to go anywhere beyond the city. We stayed in a hostel in central Christchurch for 3 nights and spent a few days exploring the sights of the city. We walked through the botanical gardens, visited the local museum, explored the shops, and hung out around the hostel. One day we went to a climbing gym and spent a few hours bouldering, a hobby that both Chris and I had missed since our travels began. Once our time in the hostel was up, Chris’ dad, John, helped us out with some points so we could stay at the Double Tree Inn for 2 nights. After living in a minivan for 3 months and then staying in a crowded hostel for a few nights, the Double Tree felt luxurious and plush. We were very grateful to be staying in a nice place for a few days and have a bit of a break from the backpacker lifestyle - thanks Wan :) 

For the remainder of our time in Christchurch, we booked a cheap AirBnb on the outskirts of the city. We were beginning to get a bit restless - while Christchurch is nice enough, New Zealand isn’t exactly famous for it’s beautiful cities and we felt like we had explored most of what it had to offer. I spent most of our days there starting to look online for vans and jobs in Australia, and Chris played a lot of Pokémon ;) I had applied to a few live-in nanny jobs in Queensland, where we were hoping to post up for a few months to save up some money, and I heard back from the one Chris and I were most excited about. The family of 5 lived on 7 acres in a sleepy beach town called Kinka Beach about 7 hours north of Brisbane, and it seemed like we would be a good fit for what they were looking for. After a few emails back and forth, the mother, Olivia, and I spoke on the phone for a while to sort out the details and get to know each other a bit. Originally Olivia and her husband, Darren, weren’t looking to have a couple, but when we told them of Chris’ handyman/DIY construction experience, they figured they could use his help on some projects around their property in addition to my help with their 3 kids. We agreed on an arrival date in early April and planned to stay in touch until then. Before we knew it, our last night in New Zealand was upon us and we decided to celebrate by going out to dinner at a Chinese vegetarian restaurant a few blocks away from our AirBnb. We ordered a few different dishes, which were fantastic, and recounted all of the unforgettable memories we made in the beautiful country of New Zealand. It was a sad goodbye but we were looking forward to our next adventure in Australia. 

At this point, the Coronavirus panic was beginning to ramp up. We were only experiencing it secondhand, as it hadn’t become a problem at all in New Zealand yet, so it didn't really feel real until we got to the airport. There were increased screening and security measures when we arrived to Australia, questions about where we’d travelled recently and separate lines for people who had been to China, Italy, Iran, or Dubai. This, of course, was only the tip of the iceberg and our nervousness about the situation began to increase. My parents were supposed to be visiting about a week after we arrived to Sydney and we weren’t sure what would happen in that time. Fortunately, we had a safe and isolated place to stay in Sydney for the week - my Dad’s childhood friend, Rob, lives in a beautiful downtown apartment in the heart of Sydney and was gracious enough to host us. For the first few days we got to know Rob over dinners and wine and he gave us advice for places to check out around the city. We walked through the beautiful botanic gardens, along the harbor to see the Sydney Opera House, and spent a day soaking up the sun at Bondi Beach. We were primarily in Sydney to start our hunt for a new van, so we met up with a few different sellers that we’d been in contact with to test drive and scope out our options. Because we would be living in this van for a longer period of time, we were hoping to upgrade on a few things that Sweetie didn’t have - a bit more space in the back, a high roof, and an indoor kitchen. We liked 1 or 2 of the ones we viewed in the first few days, but nothing was really checking all of the boxes that we were hoping for. 

Three or four days into our time in Sydney, it became very apparent how seriously the world was reacting to Coronavirus. Everyone was being sent home from work, businesses were closing, and fewer and fewer people were out on the street each day. Before we knew it, travel restrictions and bans were being put in place by many countries, Australia being one of them. With very heavy hearts, my parents had to cancel their trip to come and visit us for 2+ weeks. We were all pretty heartbroken about the situation, all of us had been looking forward to the trip for months. I was craving a taste of comfort and home that I knew would come from spending time with my parents, and I knew how excited they were to take a much deserved break from work and go on a big adventure across the world. I soon found out that my sister, Maggie, was also going to surprise me and come along with them (I had suspicions all along (; ), which only made it harder. It was a major disappointment on both ends, but it was out of our hands. 

Feeling a bit deflated and sad, we continued our search for the right van. When we came across a van that was everything we were looking for but a little bit out of our price range, we figured we might as well take a look at it and see if we could negotiate our way down. We met with the owner of the van, a Spanish guy named Edgar, who was trying to get out of the country as soon as possible because his visa was about to expire. The van was perfect, we fell in love with it immediately. It had a solar panel on top that powered a refrigerator, water pump for running water, power outlets, and cabin lights, had a whole indoor kitchen set up, and had a semi-high roof. It was in great mechanical condition and had very low kilometers compared to the majority of the vans we had looked at. We spent a day or two going back and forth with Edgar about the price and eventually we came to an agreement- we were now the proud owners of a 1999 fully outfitted Toyota Hiace Campervan! We named him Rollo, a viking name that we felt was well-suited for our van.

A day or two later, Chris and I went through a few hours of panic about coronavirus and whether or not we needed to make the difficult decision to end our trip and go home. It was poor timing to go through this decision making process, as we had just invested the majority of our money into a new home on wheels, but it was an option we knew we had to seriously consider before carrying on with our travel plans. We went through many different hypothetical scenarios, weighed all of the pros and cons, talked it out with friends and family, and eventually came to the decision that we would wait it out in Australia for now. The situation worldwide was changing every day and the uncertainty was scary - our first instinct is to be around our family in a time like this - but we knew we had a safe place to hunker down for a few months with our nannying family in Kinka Beach. With new border closures and travel restrictions being put into place, we decided we would leave Sydney and head straight for Kinka Beach without making many stops in between. Before we left, Rob recommended a hike close by in Royal National Park to the beautiful Figure Eight Pools. These series of pools were formed along a rock shelf of the coastline from centuries of pounding waves and receding tides. When the tide is low enough, you can walk out on the shelf and take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Figure Eight Pools - take a look at our pictures and you’ll understand the name. We had never seen anything like them before, it was a really cool adventure. After swimming in the pools we spent a few hours on the beach before making our way back to Sydney.  We had our last dinner with Rob and he was nice enough to send us off with a basket full of van-life essentials - we were beyond grateful for his hospitality and generosity over the course of the week and hoped to visit if we’re back in Sydney again :)

Chris and I hit the road and began our 3-day drive up the east coast of Australia. On our first day, we stopped in to visit with my great-Aunt, Nancy, who lives in Newcastle a few hours north of Sydney. I had never met Nancy, only heard about her secondhand from my Grandad and the rest of my Dad’s family, so I was very excited to finally get to meet her. Chris and I spent an hour or so with Nancy, chatting over tea and walking through her magnificent backyard garden. It was wonderful to meet her and exchange stories of our travels, I hope to stay in touch in the future. After saying our goodbyes, we continued our drive north. We felt a bit melancholy as we passed exit after exit for all of the places we were supposed to be staying at with my parents, but we were doing our best to stay positive. We knew how lucky we were to have found a beautiful new van and to have a safe place to go to in a time of crisis. We stayed overnight in free rest-stop campsites along the way and made it to Kinka Beach after 3 long days in the van. 

Olivia and Darren, the parents, greeted us and we spent an hour or so getting to know each other and taking a look around their property. They own a coral selling business where they harvest small amounts of coral from the Great Barrier Reef and then propagate it in tanks on land to sell to aquarium owners, pet stores, etc. Their property had an old aquarium on it that they were going to convert into a coral-growing space because it already had the tanks and requirements needed for their business. The aquarium was accompanied by a giant concrete whale that you could go inside - it was as big as a house and definitely a trademark of the Kinka Beach area. It was a funky property but we liked it, and we got along well with Olivia and Darren. Because we had been in Sydney and traveling around, they asked us to keep our distance and self-isolate in our van on their property for the first week that we were there, which we of course were fine with. We spent the week going to the beach, stocking up on food essentials, and relaxing in the van. As much as we tried to keep our distance, the older two of the children were very curious about the two new van-dwellers on their property. They would sneak away from their parents to come and say hello, and took a liking to us right away. Our new names were ‘Nanny Chris’ and ‘Nanny Bryn’, it was very cute :) The week of isolation passed and Chris and I moved in to the family’s house. The family also had a separate unit on their property on the second floor of the aquarium that Chris and I were planning on moving into but it had some damage from a cyclone a few years back. Fixing up the separate unit was going to be Chris’ project for the few months that we were there, and he dove right in once we got settled. For the first few days I was with Olivia and the three kids - Henderson or ‘Hendo’ (4), Israel (2), and Kingsley (12 weeks) - playing in their blow up pool, jumping on the trampoline, reading books, and watching movies. The kids were adorable and (mostly) well-behaved, and Olivia and I got along great. I spent my birthday with the kids, and Chris and I snuck away during their nap to have a pizza beach picnic where he gave me a guitar!! I had expressed the desire to start learning throughout our travels and he remembered, it was a very sweet and thoughtful gift <3 The family surprised me with birthday cake and songs later that night and made my birthday feel special, even if it was under somewhat different circumstances than usual. 

A day or two into the job, the same anxieties that Chris and I were having in Sydney began to creep back up on us. Coronavirus continued to ramp up, and our fears of being far from home grew with it. We worried about being stuck in Australia if they cancelled all outgoing flights and not being able to return to the US if family or friends got sick, or what would happen if we needed to be hospitalized abroad. Mostly we just felt scared, anxious, and homesick being in an unfamiliar place during a time of such panic and crisis, and it was seriously impacting our ability to enjoy our time there. The family had also asked that Chris didn’t get a job in the community, as they had young children and a baby, and wanted to limit potential exposure to the virus. This would mean we wouldn’t be making very much money, and we knew we needed to resupply our funds if we wanted to continue to travel. At the same time, we were scared by the prospect of traveling if we did decide to go home, which would mean exposing ourselves to airplanes and airports. It was risky and we didn’t want to bring the sickness home to anyone or put others at risk. After a few wrenching days of going back and forth about it and talking it through with Olivia and Darren, Chris and I made the difficult decision to sell the van and go home. It was a heartbreaking goodbye - the kids had begun to get attached to us, and us to them - but after lots of hugs we bid farewell and headed south towards Brisbane to sell Rollo. We stayed at a campground and arranged a few meetings with interested buyers, and after a day we made a quick sale to a Dutch backpacker couple. The next morning we were on a flight to Sydney, where we spent the night, and then carried on to San Francisco the following day. After the 13+ hour flight to California, Chris and I parted ways - I flew home to Boston and Chris to Salt Lake City. It feels strange and sad to be apart after spending literally every hour of the day together for 5+ months straight, but fortunately (and unfortunately, I suppose) we have quite a bit of experience with long-distance. We know it’s not forever and we are staying positive and looking forward to spending time with our families after being away for so long. Both of us are currently self-quarantining in our homes - I’m up in the creative room in my house for the next two weeks and Chris is confined to the basement at his house. We’re both feeling very lucky that our houses are set up in a way that allows us to be physically separate from our families while still being able to visit from across the yard or between rooms. We know not everyone being affected by coronavirus is afforded that same luxury, so we are counting our blessings and keeping ourselves busy for the next 14 days. 

Unfortunately this will likely be our last blog post for a while. But don’t worry!! Our travels will continue once we’ve saved up a little more money, and we will be sure to post here when that time comes :) We are relieved and happy to be home and are looking forward to better and brighter days. Thank you to all of our friends and family who have kept up with our travels in the past 5 months, it has been filled with more joy, wonder, and adventure than we could have ever imagined. We feel so lucky to have people in our lives that we can share those experiences with, so thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Stay home, stay safe, and stay healthy!! 

With love,

Bryn and Christopher

[frangipanidownunder]

X-Files was always set in Australia AU.

My five headcanon response:

1

Samantha’s disappearance is officially recorded as a crocodile attack. His mother moves to Brisbane but his father keeps the Queenslander near Airlie Beach. He spends the rest of his childhood scuba diving on the reef and watching the Southern Cross.

After Oxford, he sets up his consultancy in Melbourne, after parting ways with the violent crimes taskforce of the Victorian police. His first client is a woman, Kelly Cahill, who claims she was abducted by aliens while driving in the Dandenongs. She claims she lost an hour of time and she bears strange marks on her abdomen. He requests a full medical.

2

The doctor is new. She’s also a short, fiery redhead with an attitude the size of the MCG.

“You must barrack for Collingwood,” he quips as she tells him for the third time that time just does not disappear. Universal invariant aside, Doc Scully can explain neither the marks or the cause of the womb infection for which Ms Cahill was hospitalised.

“I don’t follow Aussie Rules, Mr Mulder,” she says and he hopes that means she’s into real footy. “I’ll buy that this woman is suffering from some pronounced psychosis, but whether it’s organic or as a result of those marks, I can’t say, but to say that they’re riding around in flying saucers, it’s crazy.”

He is crazy. He’s been told a million times. As crazy as a cut snake. But there’s a feeling in the pit of his stomach that tells him he needs to find out more. Not just about Kelly Cahill and the hundreds of other abduction cases he’s uncovered, but about Dana Scully.

She agrees to investigate the site of the abduction with him ‘because it’s on my way home’ and that’s how their working partnership begins.

3

She provides him medical data when he requires it, becomes a trusted sounding board even when she dismisses his ‘theories’ as having more holes that than the entire coral surface of the Reef (which is nearly 350,000 square kays, Mulder);  she takes him to all the best coffee shops and teases him when he claims he’s cold in 20 degrees. He’s not sure what he brings to the relationship other than a steady supply of Violet Crumbles and a bad habit of turning up at her place on weekends with potato scallops (they’re called potato cakes, Mulder), and bottles of New Zealand sav blanc. He buys her a ticket for the State of Origin match but she tells him she doesn’t follow rugby either. But that’s real footy, he says and she digs him in the ribs, before offering him a Tim Tam and a sly smile.

He’s never had a friendship like this. He doesn’t quite know how to handle his growing feelings and when she disappears, he goes out of his mind. She’s returned without ceremony with no memory and will not discuss his fears that her abduction was as a result of her connection to him. When her sister dies in a shooting, he’s more convinced than ever, but she dismisses him. When he suggests the red mole on the back of her neck is new, she tells him it’s just a skin tag and not to be such a worry-wort.

4

Her diagnosis is a gut-punch and he spends hours trawling the net for treatments he knows she’ll flip off. Cancer happens to 1 in three people, Mulder, she says, as though acceptance is going to help. Dana Scully is one in five billion, he knows that much. His mates at the Lone Gunmen find a man who knows a man who knows a quack who’s got some idea about her type of cancer. Her brother flies in from Sydney and they end up in a brawl at the pub. Bill calls him a ‘fucking nutjob’ and throws his VB in his face, ‘that’s what I think of you and your Victorian beer. Leave my sister to die with dignity’. When Mulder goes back to the hospital Scully agrees to try the treatment. She goes into remission and he sends Bill a slab of VB as a gift.

5

He’s on to something big. He tells her about but she’s tired. She’s in line for a promotion at work and she needs to give it her all. She can’t just drop everything and help him out on some wild goose chase whenever he demands it. When she shows up at his door and tells him she’s moving to Sydney he can’t breathe, can’t think. She leaves and he chases her down the passageway. He tells her she’s made him a whole person. Her eyes moisten and she rests her head on his shoulder. Tells him he’s always been whole all by himself. But it’s not true. He kisses her. She’s still in his arms. He whispers sorry but she shakes her head, lifts those big blue eyes and kisses him back, with such intensity that he feels time disappear, snap back and alter the way he thinks about life and the future.

They fly to Sydney to watch an Origin match and Queensland win. They win the series. But he’s the biggest winner of them all, when she says yes to his spontaneous proposal in the stands surrounded by a sea of maroon and white fans. They rent a campervan and travel the country, sometimes sleeping under the stars, sometimes tussling for the doona in the confines of a camp bed. They only settle when she’s pregnant. Within earshot of the Ninety Mile Beach, they buy a block in east Gippsland and he’s certain their kids will grow up respecting the ocean, supporting the Maroons and adoring their mother as much as he does.