Some people spend years talking about the life they want. Others quietly build toward it. And then there are those rare few who decide that life is too short to wait and set about making it happen.
Jo and Darren Mansfield’s moment of clarity came after experiencing the loss of people in their lives. This led to the realisation that planning on a future that was years ahead might see them miss out altogether.
So, in early 2025, the Horowhenua couple packed up their conventional lives, rented out their home, and drove away in their customised caravan – with no fixed timeline, no guaranteed income, and no intention of turning back anytime soon.
What originally started as a plan for holidays quickly evolved into a full-time lifestyle built on freedom, simplicity, and a deep appreciation for the here and now.
A Life-Changing Decision
Right: Beach walks are a definite favourite
For many, the dream of hitting the road is something reserved for retirement. Jo and Darren had once imagined the same. But life had other plans.
After Jo’s battle with triple negative breast cancer in 2021, and the loss of several friends in 2023, their perspective shifted dramatically.
“You just don’t know what’s around the corner,” says Jo. “We kept thinking – why are we waiting?”
Having spent decades working – Darren in the automotive industry for over 30 years, eventually as a branch manager, and Jo in banking, charity work, and gardening. Like many, they were on track for a traditional retirement somewhere around 65.
But suddenly, that timeline felt uncertain and unnecessary. After one funeral too many, they came home, looked at each other and said: “That’s it. Let’s go.”
Within three months of seriously discussing it, they were gone.
The move was undoubtedly a step up from their early caravan adventures – from caravaning with their young boys in a small Sprite Poptop, before upgrading to a permanent 26ft caravan and annex at the Hydrabad Holiday Park at Waitarere Beach for nine years. This was followed by a 10-foot 1975 Anglo Imp (which they restored) and used for going to dog agility competitions, and then eventually back to a Sprite Poptop.
A Caravan Built for More Than Holidays
At the heart of Jo and Darren’s new journey is their home on wheels: a 2024 Supreme Territory 17.6 – a fully off-road, single-axle caravan they ordered through Fortis Caravans in Palmerston North.
Although originally this caravan wasn’t meant to be their full-time residence, fortunately the Supreme Territory’s off-road design is purpose built for exploring New Zealand, so ticks all the boxes for their adventuring. With a 6-inch chassis and 2-inch raiser for extra ground clearance, D035 fully articulating off-road coupling, and Cruise Master ATX suspension, it’s purpose-built to meet the challenges of New Zealand’s undulating terrain.
Their early requirements did include a few non-negotiables, such as towing weight.
“We’ve had our 2019 Mitsubishi Triton GLXR from new and didn’t want to upgrade it, so needed the caravan to weigh a maximum of three tonne.
“And once it arrived fully kitted out, we looked at each other and thought – why not just live in it?”
Jo and Darren also wanted a caravan robust enough for New Zealand’s challenging terrain. The single axle makes navigating tight, remote spots easier, while the layout allows them the space to enjoy their new lifestyle.
“Thanks to the door being placed at the front we don’t have to squeeze around furniture to get into bed.”
And with 630 watts of solar power, two 200 amp-hour lithium batteries, and a 2000-watt inverter, they’re largely self-sufficient. Everyday comforts like an air fryer, kettle, toaster, and even a compact washing machine are all part of their off-grid life.
“Although originally we just wanted to enjoy winter camping more, because of its features we thought bugger it, let’s live in it full-time and explore New Zealand,” says Jo.
“Having a full-size shower with good pressure and a separate toilet is really important also, as it just makes everything feel normal.”
This sense of normality, even in constantly changing surroundings, is what made the leap from holidaymakers to full-time travellers feel not just possible – but obvious.
From House to Home on Wheels
Leaving wasn’t just about packing bags. Such a significant lifestyle change meant making big, sometimes uncomfortable decisions. The hardest? Renting out their home to strangers.
“That was probably the biggest adjustment,” they admit. “Not life in a caravan – we’ve had those for years and always enjoyed travel and camping, although admittedly not full-time. But handing over your house … that’s different.”
Jo and Darren made it work, opting for a flexible rental agreement and relying on a good property manager – one of their key pieces of advice for others considering the lifestyle.
They also made a pact: try it for a year, then reassess. However, it only took a few months to make it clear that this wasn’t just a phase.
After 15 months already under their belts, they admit that they can’t see themselves going back to their former lifestyle anytime soon.
Life on the Road
When asked what has surprised them most about their undertaking, they both agree.
“How easy it is,” they say.
Living in a smaller space hasn’t felt restrictive. If anything, it’s been liberating.
“We’ve got everything we need. And we don’t miss the house at all – definitely don’t miss mowing lawns or vacuuming!”
Their days are guided by a simple philosophy: go where they want, stay as long as they like (within council rules), and avoid rushing.
They follow a “2×2 rule” – no more than two hours driving, and plan for two places to stay, one being a backup.
“It’s not about getting somewhere fast,” they explain. “It’s about what you see along the way.”
And in New Zealand, especially the South Island, that means constant change.
“You can drive from one bay to the next and it feels like a completely different world.”
Travel Companions
Right: Enjoying the views at Rarangi whilst waiting to catch supper
Travelling with their dogs was always on the cards, as the couple have a long history of dog agility events, often dictating where their next travel adventure might be.
But like all of the best laid plans, not everything plays out as expected. While they departed with their heading dog crosses Stella and Max – sadly Max didn’t adjust to the new lifestyle well.
Although both were seasoned adventurers thanks to years of dog agility events, only Stella adapted to caravan life.
Max struggled with the new normal. His prey drive increased and he started chasing feral cats.
“It was a tough decision, but we had to do what was best for him,” they say. “He’s now living his best life on a lifestyle block.”
Work, But Not as You Know It
While they’ve stepped away from traditional careers, Jo and Darren haven’t stopped working, they’ve just redefined it. The couple pick up seasonal and casual jobs along the way, often guided by word of mouth or social media.
From caring for nearly 60 dogs last Easter at Pine Gully Pet Retreat in Milton, and harvesting macadamia nuts in Gisborne, to working the cherry season in Bannockburn, their experiences have been as varied as their locations.
“You meet people from all over the world. And you learn new skills all the time.”
Not every job is glamorous. Darren wasn’t a fan of asparagus picking – but that’s part of the adventure.
“We’re not travelling for work. We work when we want to, so we can keep travelling.”
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Right: Shades of autumn in Arrowtown
Like any journey, theirs hasn’t been without hiccups. One memorable misadventure involved a tricky entry point at Hurinui Mouth Reserve.
“We didn’t check the access properly and it was tight – very tight,” they laugh.
Now, they always check satellite views before heading into remote spots. They also keep detailed records of their travels: notes, maps, and pinned locations – creating a living diary of their journey. And Jo runs a detailed spreadsheet finance forecast to keep a close eye on expenses and spending.
“We’re pretty frugal anyway but this just helps us know what we’re spending and how to avoid unnecessary costs where possible.”
With all the best planning capabilities in the world however, perhaps most importantly, they’ve learned to stay flexible.
“We don’t plan too far ahead. That’s part of the freedom.”
There are, of course, things they miss. Family and friends top the list, especially with their first grandchild due in September. They also miss simple human connections, like chats over the fence with their neighbour Kevin, and trading home baking for his garden-fresh veggies.
But beyond that? “Not much,” they admit.
The trade-offs – freedom, adventure and simplicity – far outweigh what they’ve left behind.
Looking Ahead: More Road, Less Plan
Their 2026 plans are intentionally loose.They’ll head back to the North Island for their grandchild, visit the West Coast, and likely return to Bannockburn for the cherry season.
“We’ll just keep going – as long as life lets us.”
Advice from the Road
If there’s one message Jo and Darren want to share, it’s simple. Don’t wait.
“Stop thinking about it and just do it.”
They’re quick to acknowledge the practicalities. Keep your house if you can, do your research, and plan financially, but they also stress that fear shouldn’t be the deciding factor. “Do something every day that scares you,” Jo says.
For them, that meant leaving behind security for uncertainty and discovering a life richer than they’d imagined.
In turn they’ve received useful information that has helped with their travels, such as creating an “About Us” document to use when applying for casual, voluntary or seasonal work.
“It’s much more personal than a CV and really useful. We’ve picked up a lot of tips on the road, and also from some Facebook groups. You learn as you go!”
When it comes to keeping in touch with friends and family, the pair document their travels on their Facebook page, Jo and Darren’s Supreme Adventure – updating it on their phones as they’ve chosen to travel without laptops.
A Life Less Ordinary
Jo and Darren’s story isn’t just about caravans or travel. It’s about perspective and recognising that the ‘right time’ might never come and choosing to act anyway.
It’s also about trading routine for possibility, comfort zones for open roads, and long-term plans for present-moment living.
As they continue their journey, coastline by coastline, they’re not just exploring New Zealand. They are redefining what it means to truly live a life they only formerly dreamed of.
And in doing so, they’re quietly inspiring others to ask the same question they once did: If not now… when?
Jo & Darren’s Top Tips For Travelling With Dogs:
- Check the LAWA Can I Swim Here website in summer for safe water.
- Have a safe space for them to chill out. Stella’s is her crate, and her camp bed or under the caravan while she’s tied up outside.
- Have a good harness for walking. We also use a long lead so Stella can explore while walking.
Fast Facts
- 16822 kilometres travelled
- 109 places camped at
- Favourite places: Mavora Lakes, the Catlins & Ward Beach
- Best pie: Henry’s Family Pies, Otane
- Most asked question: Can I pat your doggy?
- Most regular activity: Taking photos
- Saddest moment: Rehoming Max (he is loving his new life)
- Happiest moments: Waking up each day to this lifestyle
