Reviews

"The adage “good things come to those who wait” is an understatement when referring to Kiwi Vans, as Nick and Delena delivered an unimaginable masterpiece. I had dreams of van ownership for 10 years before it finally became reality. I spent a few of those years “interviewing” different companies/builders, looking for the perfect fit and could not be happier with Kiwi Vans. Here are some of the highlights:

Design- 

I proposed a near impossible list of requirements in the design of my van. Somehow, these two masters of the crafts created a plan that incorporated all of my requirements. It’s a one of a kind layout with all of the pieces in their perfect places. I have a shower, a third seat, and a BIG fridge in a 144” wheel base, in addition to a garage big enough to hold multiple bikes, and a living area large enough to stretch in. 

Build process: 

I appreciated the weekly updates throughout the build. As Nick spearheaded the physical build, Delena and I spoke regularly about the more abstract pieces of the van: colors, patterns, hardware, etc. She sent numerous batches of samples and we spent hours discussing different combinations. Afterwards, she’d send computer renderings of what we had discussed so I could better visualize how everything tied together. To make this already labor intensive process even more demanding, I didn’t know what I wanted. But I knew I’d recognize it when I saw it. Delena’s patience, suggestions, affirmations, and persistence were necessary to make my dream a reality. 

The pickup: 

We arrived in the late evening to a home cooked meal before spending hours going over the van. Pictures and videos did not show how perfectly Nick built every aspect of the van. There is intention behind every dimension; years of trial and error have helped them find the perfect components and mesh them together. It is clear he spent hours tinkering with the smallest of installations, so that everything fits perfectly, nothing squeaks, rubs, or rattles (as much as is possible in a van going 80 on the interstate,) and everything will last for decades.

Some specific examples that show how passionate Nick and Delena are: 

-I have increased sensitivity to light so all lights are dimmable with warm colors

-I had a vision for a spice rack with glass containers mounted on the wall. This piece is a work of art in and of itself, and the glass jars never break or rattle, as they are set in cushioned slots and further secured with magnets. True genius!! 

-Hand sewn seat skirts cover wiring under the seats (and help keep dust out)

-the purchased shower curtain was reinforced, as they recognized areas for improvement. 

Afterwards: 

Nick and Delena have continued to make themselves available and I expect this relationship to exist well beyond the life of this van. They’ve helped answer questions about different components (as there was only so much I could memorize at the pickup,) problem solve as small hiccups arise during the learning curve of using the van, and check in regularly. 

Furthermore, I’ve thought of a few additions that will make my van perfect. So we have an appointment scheduled to quickly make those adjustments, including a storage box/cushioned seat, additional L tracks, and hardware to make winterization more efficient. 

I can’t emphasize enough how grateful I am to Nick and Delena. They spent an untold number of hours, and went above and beyond, to create a true work of art. This van is perfect for me and I have no doubt that they build perfect vans for all other clients. They are great people, extremely qualified in all aspects of van building, and so pleasant to work with. If I ever want another van, there’s no doubt I will seek out Nick and Delena again. "  -CP