Retro Kombis head to NZ

VW Kombis are set to brighten up New Zealand roads as a British-based company launches its campervans into the competitive tourist market.

Psychedelic-patterned 70s VW Kombis are set to brighten up New Zealand roads as a British-based company launches its campervans into the competitive tourist market.

We Dub You is the brainchild of British couple Tony and Yvette Martin who credited the Kiwi "why not?" attitude for prompting them to launch the venture in New Zealand.

We Dub You sees retro charm meet modern digital technology, as holiday-makers hire VW campervans complete with iPhone/iPod music, and iPads loaded with films, games, interactive guides and navigation tools. Prices have not been advertised for New Zealand, but week-long packages in the UK start at 595 ($1293).

"We chose New Zealand because we love it," Tony Martin said by email. "When the European bases are quiet, New Zealand can take up the slack.

"We know that camping culture in New Zealand is strong so we are expecting the bases there to be successful."

The business will start with 17 campervans when it launches in September and it plans to double the fleet next year. The venture will start in Auckland and move into the South Island next year.

They intend the business to be "a friend of the amazing New Zealand environment" and they're keen to "push the green camping angle".