MEET RAFE: ONE OWNER, 12 YEARS OF CARE, READY FOR HIS NEXT ADVENTURE
After 12 wonderful years exploring New Zealand, Mum and Dad are finally selling their beloved motorhome, Rafe.
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KerikeriWaikato
Bought brand new in 2014, Rafe has been fussed over, thoughtfully upgraded and enjoyed ever since. He’s been to the South Island four times and just about everywhere in the North Island, in all weathers. You can follow the adventures on Dad’s blog, buggeritweareoff.com. Now, with overseas travel and the odd Airbnb calling, it’s time for someone else to make their own memories.
Another wider look forward with the 190l three way fridge/freezer.Looking back to the Galley with the TV and water/power/waste gauges.
THE DRIVE
Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre Iveco turbo diesel with 180hp and 400Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed Comfort-Matic transmission. It has a timing chain and needs no AdBlue. Built on a long-wheelbase AL-KO chassis with trailing-arm suspension, Rafe rides beautifully. He’s economical too, recently averaging 8.4 litres per 100km, which is impressive for a motorhome of nearly 8 metres.
THE LAYOUT
A permanent north–south island bed offers access from both sides with storage underneath, and a front drop-down double gives room for guests. The L-shaped lounge is the spot for meals, relaxing or planning tomorrow’s destination. The generous separate shower sits opposite the vanity and cassette toilet.
The Dinng table that moves in all directions with the swivel seats. We’ve had 8 for dinner around this table.Looking back at the Headboard. There are extra speakers for the Stereo on either side of the bed along with USB jacks for phones etc.
Several years ago the shower tray was replaced and a boatbuilder brought in to properly reinforce the support underneath. It’s a known weak point in motorhomes of this era, and it’s a good example of the care Mum and Dad have put into Rafe.
The ShowerLooking through from the Bed at the back. Bathroom on the Left with hand basin and Toilet. Shower on the RightThe Cassette Toilet area and washbasin.
WARM AND POWERED UP
Built in Germany for European winters, Rafe is very well insulated. Dad says he’s never been cold in it.
The power system is the standout upgrade: 300Ah of lithium, 200W of solar and about 40 amps of DC-to-DC charging as soon as the engine starts. TVs, stereo and lights all run without you having to think about power.
• Warm in all seasons: Truma Combi 6 heating and hot water, thermal windscreen cover
• Room for the supplies: 190L Dometic three-way fridge/freezer, with just one element replaced in 12 years
• Entertainment: Kenwood 9″ stereo with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and subwoofer, plus two Avtex TVs with Google TV and a 12V router (streaming needs mobile coverage and a data connection)
• Outdoor living: large Thule awning, BBQ that connects to the onboard LPG, rear bike rack with flip-out clothesline
• Loved from day one: one owner from new, with 12 years of care and the little niggles worked through
Waipu Cove
Mum and Dad know Rafe inside out, and every addition comes from years of travelling and learning what matters. They’ll be sad to see him go, but there are plenty more adventures ahead, and it’s time for someone else to enjoy this one.
4 thoughts on “2014 Dethleffs Globe 4 – One Owner, Island Bed, Lithium, Thule Awning”
Hi Chris, it’s a shame to hear that you’re selling Rafe, but you’ve certainly enjoyed the motorhome for a long time. Your future travel plans sound great, though. Please drop me a quick line and let me know how many kilometres the Rafe has clocked up and what your asking price is. I’ll ask our neighbour in Sumner if he’s interested. (Mind you, he’s still ‘our neighbour’ – and a friend – even though we sold our house in Sumner last year and are now travelling “exclusively” in our caravan, towed by our VW Multivan. You’ll remember the rig from Takapuna. We’re currently in Germany, flying back to Christchurch in two weeks. In February/March we’ll be on the North Island and perhaps there’ll be an opportunity to meet up in Auckland. Alle the very best – Stefan and Bruni
Hi Stefan and Bruni
Lovely to hear from you.
I grew up in Sumner .. our house was 4 head st !
Im in two minds about Rafe but the reality is it’s a quite a bit to manage and Fiona is not always keen.
It’s a 2014, with 12200ks .. it’s an IVECO with Timing chain (truck motor) so is just starting out as far as the motor goes.
We’re looking for around 145k$. New right now they’re the same as the Dethleff Esprit at early $320k odd and same spec with a 2.2litre fiat motor with Cam belt.
Look forward to catching up.
At a certain time you come to a decision and its now for another couple to feel free as a bird, roaming the roads as they like. New plans travelling overseas now you both in good condition to go as you like. We sincere hope on short notice two will be very happy 🙏🏼🤗🍀. We fully understand this view on your future. We’re pretty much te same and it has crossed our minds too. Most likely spring 2027. We’ve a groups trip through Spain end of Jan up to mid March. After that we think of …. A holiday by B&B and a Hotel is just as convenient. Thnx for sharing and feel free to stay in touch. All the best so far Fiona&Chris 🙏🏼🍀🌺😘 hugs. Hans&Ans
Fiona & Chris, two empty nesters put their dreams of doing something different into reality… Now back in a house, they were living in their Motorhome, come along for the ride.
Hi Chris, it’s a shame to hear that you’re selling Rafe, but you’ve certainly enjoyed the motorhome for a long time. Your future travel plans sound great, though. Please drop me a quick line and let me know how many kilometres the Rafe has clocked up and what your asking price is. I’ll ask our neighbour in Sumner if he’s interested. (Mind you, he’s still ‘our neighbour’ – and a friend – even though we sold our house in Sumner last year and are now travelling “exclusively” in our caravan, towed by our VW Multivan. You’ll remember the rig from Takapuna. We’re currently in Germany, flying back to Christchurch in two weeks. In February/March we’ll be on the North Island and perhaps there’ll be an opportunity to meet up in Auckland. Alle the very best – Stefan and Bruni
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Hi Stefan and Bruni
Lovely to hear from you.
I grew up in Sumner .. our house was 4 head st !
Im in two minds about Rafe but the reality is it’s a quite a bit to manage and Fiona is not always keen.
It’s a 2014, with 12200ks .. it’s an IVECO with Timing chain (truck motor) so is just starting out as far as the motor goes.
We’re looking for around 145k$. New right now they’re the same as the Dethleff Esprit at early $320k odd and same spec with a 2.2litre fiat motor with Cam belt.
Look forward to catching up.
LikeLike
At a certain time you come to a decision and its now for another couple to feel free as a bird, roaming the roads as they like. New plans travelling overseas now you both in good condition to go as you like. We sincere hope on short notice two will be very happy 🙏🏼🤗🍀. We fully understand this view on your future. We’re pretty much te same and it has crossed our minds too. Most likely spring 2027. We’ve a groups trip through Spain end of Jan up to mid March. After that we think of …. A holiday by B&B and a Hotel is just as convenient. Thnx for sharing and feel free to stay in touch. All the best so far Fiona&Chris 🙏🏼🍀🌺😘 hugs. Hans&Ans
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Thanks for your kind words.. take care.
Chris
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