Overall New Zealand has some of the best and toughest shorelines in the world, as well as the high country tracks and remote back roads making it one of the best Well equipped four wheel drive cars in the world to own. From a dip-in-the-beach Sunday at a rustic camping grounds to a serious off-road touring with a vehicle, the proper piece of equipment can be the distinction between a trouble-free or a troublesome trip.
For years, drivers all over the country have relied on their local protection equipment, suspension system and recovery gear suppliers to get their vehicles prepared for whatever the road has to offer.
A Trusted Name in Vehicle Accessories
Since 1975 ARB New Zealand have established their reputation for adventure producing a broad selection of accessories catering to four wheel drive vehicles. Their product line features just about anything a vehicle needs to get ready, including vehicle protection, vehicle suspension, storage, lighting and recovery.
Instead of providing universal add-ons to be installed universally, the brand specializes in tailoring accessories to particular vehicle models, guaranteeing a perfect fit and effective operation under challenging scenarios. This has created a familiar name to those with popular models such as those from Toyota (Hilux), Ford (ranger) and more recently the BYD Shark.
Protection and Suspension for Tough Terrain
Protection they afford is a major factor in any serious build out. The Bull Bar is a design that protects the front of vehicles from damage by animals, rocks and rough trails, and as such, a well-designed Bull Bar can also serve as mounting points for drivers lights and winches. The category is still evolving with the recently introduced Zenith Bar that has its strength but is much more of a modern design.
An ability to be suspended is also key for vehicles that are to be loaded with camping equipment or towing equipment. Old Man Emu suspension systems are designed to provide better ride quality, handling and load carrying, and are popular options among owners who wish that their vehicle will ride smoothly and handle well, both on and off rougher, unformed roads. The improved suspension further assists in maintaining correct vehicle geometry with the addition of heavier items such as bull bars or roof top tents.
Storage, Recovery, and Camping Essentials
Going on a long trip into the outback is not all it takes to have a tough exterior. Using drawer systems and storage solutions can help to keep equipment, food and tools inside the vehicle organised and easy to access. If camping frequently, the fridge freezer can free up time on shopping trips, and will keep the food and drinks cold without the use of ice packs. For those who like to get out of the way, recovery equipment is another must have category.
Snatch Straps, winches and traction aids are a must have for things that can make or break a trip. Other factors, such as air compressors and air locker systems, also contribute to safety as the driver can regulate tyre pressure, enhancing traction in sand, mud or loose gravel. As a result of this, rooftop tents like Intrepid range have become popular amongst travelers who desire to stay on the road without needing to bring along an additional tent.
Lighting, Fuel, and Everyday Practicality
For anyone who has to drive in low light levels or in thick bushes, it’s quite an important consideration for safety and performance. Driving lights aim to extend and clarify a vehicle’s headlights. This is especially useful when crossing roads in New Zealand where little to no lights and dangerous wildlife on the roads are common.
Another functionality for long-distance driving is fuel storage. Aux tanks make a vehicle easier to use, which can save time when stopping at gas stations which can be sparse or off-limits in certain regions. The additions and canopies and tub accessories that help keep your gear safe in the back of the ute make a compact based tool an actual Raider.
Choosing Accessories That Match Your Vehicle
With many options in hand, it is best to have an idea of how a vehicle may be used before choosing accessories. The choice of gear between a weekend camper heading to established camp sites and a person going on established high country tracks might differ — perhaps a roof tent or fridge freezer are more important for the former, whereas recovery gear, upgraded suspension and a solid bull bar may be more important for the latter.
Several suppliers provide various tools that enable the customer to choose the exact make and model he wants, so as to guarantee compatibility of parts like bars and suspension kits and proper installation of canopies. It’s also good to work with an authorised dealer, especially if you’re going for more complicated features such as air lockers or suspension systems, to ensure the installation is carried out properly.
Conclusion
Preparing the cars to ride the ground of New Zealand doesn’t have to be too complex a process, but it’s certainly a step to be taken seriously and with good equipment. Whether you’re looking for protection bars, suspension upgrades or storage solutions, recovery gear and camping accessories, you’ll find something to suit virtually every driver and destination.
Owners can have confidence exploring with tools supplied by companies like ARB New Zealand, with a wide catalogue of tools based upon decades of great experience with four-wheel drive vehicles. When travelling for a few hours on Friday or Saturday or a couple of days steaming along back roads, picking the right accessories – depending on the vehicle and surroundings – is one of the smartest things on any driver’s to-do list before heading out.
