Writing in NZ Motorhomes, Caravans & Destinations - the country’s leading magazine on buying and using a motorhome or caravan - Steve Vermeulen reveals to readers his favourite motorhome of 2011.

5 Reasons to drive away today

• Fuel efficient engine
• Brake with confidence
• Proven reliability
• Designed for comfort
• Environmentally Responsible

Kevin Harte started out as a local Nelson milkie with his ten year-old son Leithem as a runner. Eighteen years later, as Goodman Fielder contractors, the pair runs a fleet of Meadow Fresh trucks delivering not only the morning milk but most of what’s on your breakfast plate too. 

While Ian and his wife took over deliveries to 300 local homes, Kevin concentrated on building the commercial side of the business, delivering to supermarkets and restaurants. He says his purchase last year of a low-height Fighter

Forty years ago, New Zealand freight transport was experiencing a period of major transformation. In 1971, Todd Motors introduced Fuso to spearhead the new era.  

After one of the toughest trading years in history, Fuso topped the 2010 sales chart, delivering 384 trucks and buses; 17 ahead of its nearest rival and 75 more than the third-placed brand.

National sales manager Roger White attributes the result to the basics – good product and dealers leaving no stone unturned in looking after their customers’ needs.  “Our dealers have unquestionably been successful in adding value to our customers’ businesses. In a difficult economy, transport operators need to have confidence in their machinery and Fuso’s reputation for value, reliability and an easy-to-access parts and service network provides that peace of mind.”

Welcome to our first issue of Truck News for what is quickly shaping up to be an exciting year.  We’re proud to begin 2011 – our 40th anniversary – as New Zealand’s No.1 heavy commercial brand. In increasing numbers operators are seeing the benefits of Fuso across the range and we’ll continue to deliver the professionalism behind our product that’s put us at the front of the pack. It was a tough market last year but all our dealers worked tirelessly in support of our customers as they sought to strengthen their positions. The stories in these pages show that there are still opportunities out there and, while the economy may still be fractured, things do seem to be moving forward.

While the heavy side of our industry waits for new regulations to help grow their businesses, the Fighters that Fuso dealers are registering in accelerating numbers for city and rural distribution suggests the gentle rise in GDP is adding some confidence.  Tourism, too, appears to be feeling a warm draught of air, with Rosa buses meshing well with the aims of New Zealand operators.