My partner and I wish to travel the country for 2years +. At this stage we are weighing up the pros and cons of a housebus vs Caravan. Taking into consideration that we must have a separate vehicle and a small boat (possibly smartwave 3500, with or without trailer).
Anyone here done something similar? What was your setup or what would be your setup be? I can see pros and cons for both.

If I was to go with the housebus idea, I'm thinking A frame a flat deck 4x4 with the boat and/or trailer on top. Not sure how feasible it is. Either way, I need a separate vehicle as I'm not retiring and would use it for work when required.

A question that can be likened to asking if it is better to buy an ali or a glass boat, as there are pros & cons with both so at the end of the day it simply comes down to individual preferences.

Its funny. I have this discussion with other campers over a few beers up north every summer. I  would always have to have a small boat... ( whats the point of even going if ya dont!)  So 2 vehicles would be required.

just done it Kitno and had a blast. 

Good replies guys. Catchelot, I'll have the bottom one thanks.

Here's a small list of must haves.
Separate bedroom, not interested in turning seating area into a bed each night.
Water storage, atleast 5-700 ltrs, enough for maybe 2 weeks.
Off grid capable.
Separate bathroom, with shower, toilet, vanity.
Full kitchen
Generous amount of storage.
Heating for the colder months, we will be going to the south island.

Still throwing the idea out there of getting a small boat and trailer on the back of a flat deck single cab. Can't yet see that being an issue with either a bus or Caravan. Aframes still legal? Trailer would probably make launching and retrieving easier.

yes always compromises. We got a great solution for our needs in the end. Our caravan has a double bed with a sliding door, seperate shower, seperate bathroom. Really was like a upmarket apartment with 3 tv points - bedroom - lounge -and outside under awning great for sports etc.

just sold van $80k and roof topper $3500, just truck to go before heading back to nz for next chapter. Been amazing journey around Australia. Many people talk about doing it just a few actually do it, so go for it and learn along the way ...we are all dead a long time .

Catchelot wrote: Just a small aside thought to fishing. And that is, have you thought of a torpedo long line off the shore rather than towing a boat or car/wagon towing a boat. And then again have you thought about going to wherever and then sussing charters for the area??

Good thought but we're wanting to tag the majority we catch, so rods are preferred. Also want to use the boat for exploring.

yip good tips there Alan L. Fresh water in nz is everywhere like petrol stations etc. Aussie not so much. I did take a couple of 20litre spare drums but never used. There is a tank gauge so you know when getting low.  We would drain the grey waste on the highway when traveling on drip. It was so hot ait would be dry as it hit the ground.  Most places outside of the national parks let you drain straight into the ground. Always used bio products.