Volkswagen's California Ocean Getaway

After a long day exploring New Zealand’s backyard, there’s nothing better than returning to the new California to take things easy. The interior transforms to sleep four adults quickly and easily. The rear two-seater bench seat folds down to create a double bed on the ‘first-floor’ and the pop-up roof reveals a second spacious sleeping berth.

Volkswagen General Manager Tom Ruddenklau said, “What began with the Volkswagen Kombi as a rolling symbol for independence and freedom has become a true home on four wheels in the California. There is no better way to add to the success story of a legend, and no better way to express your current attitude to life.

“The new Volkswagen California provides a luxury way of touring New Zealand at its best – on the road with all the creature comforts. With space for the whole family or a group of friends to travel together, it provides a home away from home and a fun, plus convenient, way to holiday.”

The slim-line kitchen boasts a cooling box, gas cook tops, sink and good storage space. It provides the ideal home for everyday life while on the road. Driving comfort, safety and off-road capability is achieved effortlessly thanks to its 4MOTION all-wheel drive and seven-speed dual clutch (DSG) gearbox.

Kiwi road trips in the California by Volkswagen’s ambassadors:
Kerikeri – Home of Olympic sailor Blair Tuke. Stay at Aroha Island, park up for a picnic and check out the kiwi and wildlife while you’re there.

Auckland – Home of hockey player and Olympian Simon Childs. Drive to the rugged west coast for a spot at Piha Domain Camp. Climb Lion Rock, then cool off at Auckland’s famed black sand surf beach. If the legs need more stretching, walk to Kitekite falls, just two minutes’ drive from Piha.

Tauranga – Home of Olympic sailor Peter Burling. On your way in, stop by McLaren Falls and jump across the rocks to sit directly on top of the dam's waterfalls. Make your way to Mount Maunganui and park at Beachside Holiday Park. Walk the track and take in the Bay of Plenty coastline from the summit.

Wairarapa – About an hour’s drive from Wellington, the home of New Zealand canoe sprinter, Kayla Imrie, whose parents are being sent to Rio to cheer her on at the Olympic Games.
- Go for a wine tasting tour through the many vineyards in Martinborough. If wine’s not your thing, try the Martinborough Brewery. Sleep it off at the Martinborough Top 10 Holiday Park.
- Pack a picnic, then walk or drive up Mount Victoria. Take in the panoramic views of Wellington city and beyond from the lookout. Rest up at Cuba Street Motorhome Park.

Additional Features & Specifications of the California:

The integrated roller blinds create privacy and shade, and the ability to swivel the front seats up to 180 degrees enables driver and passengers to sit together in a cosy seating group.

In combination with the removable camping table within the sliding door and the two folding chairs in the tailgate, passengers are always equipped for outings of all kinds.

The dimmable LED lighting in the pop-up roof and tailgate produce a new feel-good ambience.

Prices start at $130,000* (plus ORC)

Since the launch of the California model in 1988, every generation has seen its popularity grow. In the T3 version 22,000 California models were produced and in the T4 version 39,000. The T5 version the Volkswagen California achieved a production record of over 50,000 vehicles. California is now in its sixth generation.