• In 1946, a practical-minded New Zealander became interested in caravans as a way of holidaying and decided to build one for his family in his garage. From this humble beginning a story of Kiwi ingenuity emerged, with Liteweight Caravans growing to become an iconic New Zealand brand, which for over four decades led the country, and sometimes the world, in technical design and innovation. Liteweight produced more caravans than any other caravan manufacturer in New Zealand and, today more than 25 years after the factory closed, the majority of its caravans are still in use. This is a story as much about people as it is of caravans, and the person at the heart of the story is Tek Jessen, Liteweight’s founder. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • Automania Iconic New Zealand Collections Visit the most incredible motor vehicle collections from across New Zealand, rarely ever showcased for the public before. From vintage cars to motorbikes, military vehicles to famous movie cars and exotic cars– the owners of these collections take us inside their garages to celebrate the vehicles that have captured their imaginations. These vehicles have intriguing histories, with some guaranteed to bring back fond memories of bygone eras, and others we could only dream of owning. Many have been painstakingly restored by the owner, or totally built from scratch. Discover the beloved vehicles that have inspired exceptional cases of Automania! Published by David Bateman Ltd For a full review of the book please visit www.flaxroots.com All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
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    With the popularity of vintage and classic caravans increasing exponentially across both Australia and New Zealand it was only a matter of time before we saw the rise in the vintage and classic tow car. They are creative works of road going art, making a stunning combination and grabbing attention wherever they go. Don and Marilyn feature forty classic car and caravans from across Australia and New Zealand in an exciting new book along with over twenty snapshots. Within these pages we find vintage and retro caravan owners who have embraced the classic tow car and added a new dimension to their hobby. Similarly, we find classic car owners who have expanded their love of classic cars to include a classic caravan. The car and caravan combos will excite many people and bring back nostalgic memories for many others. The book does come with a warning. If you own a classic caravan, you may well be tempted to buy a classic tow car. On the other hand, if you own a classic car you may soon find yourself searching for a classic or vintage caravan. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • Her Space steps into the creative spaces used by more than 50 artistic and inspirational women who are following their passions. Among them are women who knit, sew, paint, and build things. Women of all walks of life will find someone they can identify with, something new to try, or someone to be inspired by. There are also special sections on getting started creatively, creating your very own ‘Her Space’ and the M words – marketing and money. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • More Retro Caravans – Vantastic Kiwi Collections Join us in celebrating some of the most incredible retro caravans recently restored from across New Zealand. The retro caravan craze continues at an ever-increasing rate with more wonderful restorations hitting the road every year. More Retro Caravans brings together another collection of these wonderfully restored caravans from the 1920s to the 1980s highlighting some of the local history behind these vehicles and the people who lovingly restore them. Along with a number of retro styled new builds these old caravans recapture the enduring appeal of the long hazy days of New Zealand summers. It is a showcase of workmanship, dedication and imagination and we feel privileged that their owners have allowed us to present them here for you to enjoy. Published by David Bateman Ltd All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • My Mini Could Tow That! highlights the rapidly growing popularity of the teardrop and tiny vintage and classic caravan demonstrating that big is not always the most beautiful. These teardrops and ‘tinies’ have an appeal all of their own and can be towed comfortably by the smallest of cars. The teardrops can also be easily homebuilt, great for the DIYer or for someone looking for a low-cost entry into the retro caravan scene. Within these pages we present a selection of teardrops and tiny caravans from New Zealand and Australia ranging from old to new, basic to fully self-contained units, and homebuilt to factory made. Each teardrop or tiny caravan has its own unique story and invites the reader into the world of tiny living in these mini holiday homes. Published by David Bateman Ltd All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • Retro and Vintage Boats are a picturesque reminder of an elegant time past, when beauty, form and style ruled. They are the beautiful classic car or stunning hot rod of the lakes and sea, and they are becoming increasingly sought after by Kiwi boaties. Within these pages, author Don Jessen presents a highly covetable selection of these beautiful boats, and their stories. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • The retro caravan craze is in full bloom – clear from the ever-increasing number of vans parked up at idyllic spots at car events around the country, the magazines and online chatter on the subject, and a general yearning among the population for the sort of carefree holidaying that caravanning offers. Don Jessen profiles some of the prettiest and most interesting vans, and gives a bit of history on what has become an endearing and enduring hobby for many. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • Travel the length and breadth of New Zealand, you cannot help but notice the Recreational Vehicles parked at holiday spots across the country. These RV’s - now numbering more than 40,000 in New Zealand - come in all shapes and sizes from the small self-contained vans to the luxury multi-metre motorhomes. From choosing and setting up your RV, to living life on the open road this book is designed to guide you through all stages of the decision-making process - from your RV dreams to the practical realities of RV ownership. Whether it’s building, purchasing, self-containment, safety or maintenance this book aims to provide you with all the information you need to become an informed owner, regardless of your budget. There is also a glimpse of some of New Zealand’s outstanding RV’s and the people who inhabit them. Step inside their rigs and learn about their roads to becoming RV owners and how they make the most of a wonderful lifestyle exploring all that New Zealand has to offer. Published by David Bateman Ltd All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • The wind in your face, the freedom of the highway, the power and connection between rider and machine provide the ultimate ride. From vintage sidecars to futuristic trikes and three wheeled cars, these vehicles capture the imagination like no other. These vehicles are the ultimate expression of road going ingenuity and have truly come of age as recreational vehicles for men and women alike. According to their owners, they are glorious fun to ride and absolutely addictive. From a 1915 Royal Enfield with sidecar to a 2017 three wheeled TriPod sportscar, to a 2018 V8 five seater trike and many more in between, Don Jessen brings you an amazing selection of three wheelers from Australia and New Zealand. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • New Zealand is home to a world-class collection of vintage and iconic aircraft. Don Jessen profiles more than 60 aircraft and tells the tales of the pilots who fly these vintage machines – even providing the technical specifications for the really keen! The military and civil aircraft featured span the globe and the 20th century, reaching right back to the time of aviation pioneer Richard Pearce. Also featured are profiles of some of this country’s excellent aviation museums and internationally acclaimed airshows. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.
  • Out of stock
    The vintage and retro caravan craze continues to blossom on both sides of the Tasman. This is evidenced by the numerous vintage rallies attracting large numbers of caravans across Australia and New Zealand. It is a phenomenon that shows no sign of slowing down as more people are drawn to restoring much-loved old caravans. In Vintage and Retro Caravans Downunder, Don and Marilyn Jessen profile some of the prettiest, rarest and most unusual old caravans in Australia and New Zealand. They’ll introduce you to some dedicated caravanners, who share their thoughts on their vintage- vanner lifestyle and the caravans they love. As well as plenty of fabulous vans, there are also insights into caravan fashions over the years, tips on how to accessorise with period crockery and caravan ware, and some advice on presenting your caravan. Whether it’s retro and vintage that interest you or you’re a caravan fan, there’s plenty here to intrigue and inspire. All the books purchased through this website will be signed by Don and/or Marilyn.

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