AUSSIE CHARMER

Malcolm Street takes a look at the Australian-built Avida Topaz.

Avida caravans and motorhomes are sold in New Zealand by Hamilton-based dealership, Auto Leisure Marine. The dealer has the full Avida range available, including one of the latest designs, the Topaz C7652.

With an external body length of 7652mm, the Topaz is no small van. Undoubtedly one of its main attractions is the 3740mm off-side slide-out, which adds considerably to the interior area.

With windows all round, the U-shaped lounge will seat two easily and four at a pinch, while the split kitchen layout provides space to move about. The nearside bench includes a four-burner hob and grill, along with a stainless-steel sink and drainer. Both the microwave oven and shelf are neatly hidden behind a roller shutter door. Fitting in between the fridge and microwave oven area is a double wire basket pantry.

At 1900mm x 1530mm, the island bed is slightly longer than the average caravan bed. There is generous cupboard capacity with two wardrobes and four large drawers.

A full-width bathroom should give users room to move and this one certainly does. The nearside shower cubicle has a door opening wide enough to get in and out with ease and room to turn around. The vanity cabinet with pedestal wash basin, cupboard space and large wall mirror also has enough room for a top loading washing machine in the corner.

Sandwich panel construction is used throughout the Topaz. Fibreglass composite panels are used with a polyurethane frame and high-density polystyrene for insulation. All the components – walls, roof and floor are one piece to minimise the risk of leaks. External storage is well catered for by both a front boot and a front tunnel storage with access from both sides. Supporting the body is a hot dipped galvanized chassis with 150mm x 50mm drawbar and chassis rails.

Anyone desiring a van with plenty of internal living area should certainly have a look at the Topaz. It’s built very much in the Avida style with a high level of appointment and a contemporary construction style. Hitching up will need a large tow vehicle but that’s to be expected with a van that’s designed with off-the-beaten-track travel in mind. Find out more at avidahamilton.co.nz