We're getting away from it all… right here

Thursday, 8 October 2020

Alan Dempsey of EBO Bikes is among the exhibitors at the NZMCA Motorhome, Caravan and Leisure Show.

After a year of covid-19, lockdowns and generally staying in, thousands keen on taking their home away from home are set to descend on Mystery Creek.

This year’s NZMCA Motorhome, Caravan and Leisure Show is gearing up to be a grand celebration of domestic tourism’s ongoing renaissance, with organisers pointing to a renewed interest in Kiwis’ own backyard.

“We are here,” exclaimed NZMCA CEO Bruce Lochore. “We’re here, and we’re actually able to do things. We have an opportunity to get out, and about.”

Adam Newman, operations manager at caravan maker TrailLite said his team was flat out setting up for a show that was likely to be supercharged by post-covid and winter cabin fever.

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“It’s a unique time. New Zealanders can explore their country for themselves. With less of the international crowds there will be a bit more space. It’s exciting, and there’s quite a bit of anticipation for the summer.”

The event, which last year hosted 1500 motorhomes at its park and stay area, is expecting an even bigger turnout in post-lockdown 2020.

“September was a record month for the industry,” said Lochore. The main issue he’d heard about involved a shortage of stock. He was optimistic that the trend will continue.

More than 160 event exhibitors share Lochore’s enthusiasm.

“Absolutely, people are looking for options to go out and get exercise. The demand has been high.” said Alan Dempsey of electric bike seller, EBO Bikes.

“Covid really punched a hole in us, but we’ve been selling out. If we hadn’t run out of stock and had to wait two months for new bikes, I doubt we’d be in debt.”

EBO Bikes has been an exhibitor at the show for the past three years. Dempsey says that their sales ethos hasn’t changed despite the upheavals of 2020.

“We sell a pretty unique product. Our star bike is ideal for the caravan lifestyle. It’s popular with motorhome owners because it’s light, it folds down to the size of a suitcase, and it’s convenient. I think people look at it as an alternative to their car for touring. It solves everything. It’s comfortable, and you can get the cycling experience.”

The NZMCA Motorhome, Caravan & Leisure Show will run from Friday 9 October, to Sunday 11 October 2020 at Mystery Creek.

This year, the Park and Stay area at Mystery Creek is free for all attendees.