Explore with Steffan on Overland Navigator
I’d always grown up in a family that had a real hunger for adventure. Most weekends we were out tramping in the local mountains. Family holidays consisted of (and still consist of) lots of walking, camping and outdoor adventures! I loved watching Top Gear and Man vs Wild with Bear Grylls. A catalyst which started a love for vehicles and a love for the outdoors. I remember watching the Top Gear North Pole and Africa specials. These created a spark in me which ignited a passion for 4wding. It wasn’t until about 7 years ago when I could afford my first 4wd, a 1985 Suzuki Samurai that overlanding really got in my blood. The freedom to be able to drive to remote places, roll out some canvas and enjoy the peace and serenity that NZ’s great outdoors offers. That’s what I loved. And the core of why I do this has never changed, the vehicles have, multiple times, but my love for the outdoors never faltered. Nothing beats a campfire, some good food cooked over the coals, the view of the stars, the conversations that are had and the memories that are made. Absolute magic.
I have just purchased a completely stock standard 100 Series Landcruiser. I previously had a hilux which was very well equipped, a full camping setup plus more. However I really missed the practicality of a wagon, especially as my hilux was a flat deck, it didn’t leave much space for dry storage, so when it rained I found myself running out of usable space pretty quickly! The 100 series has a beautiful mix of comfort and ruggedness. The 1HD-FTE motor is arguably the best motor Toyota have ever made. It’s smooth and reliable, and has enough torque and power to make the long haul drives comfortable and easy. Dependability is everything when you’re headed to remote locations with no cellphone reception which is why a Landcruiser is my vehicle of choice. And who doesn’t love a classic Landcruiser tail gate! The most important feature!
