We take a look at NZ-based Dreadnort Boat’s new POD camper concept, and it’s out of this world!
Recently, I was travelling through Outback Queensland and learnt about the Min Min Light for the first time. Aliens? Folklore? A mirage? Who knows. It did, however, get me thinking about all the weird and wonderful things that are spotted, followed by rumours that spread quicker than a bushfire on dry grass.
Now, imagine hearing there was a UFO seen travelling on an unsealed track. Turns out, that may not be a lie.
Auckland-based powerboat builders, Dreadnort Boats, have created a UFO-inspired camper trailer that you’ve got to check out. It’s called The Dreadnort POD (Point Of Difference).
The concept for this quirky camper came about from a case study in 2011 for a multi-use tsunami survival shelter that would double as a boat and caravan. Sounds like something you’d see on that American doomsday preppers TV series, right?
The company has made it clear that despite the initial inspiration, their POD in its current form won’t stand up to the forces of a tsunami due to its door design and large windows. So for now, it’s just for the weekend warriors and travelling enthusiasts who like to do things a little differently.
Dreadnort Boats have their PODs built in a factory in West Auckland. They’re made from 5mm marine grade aluminium and have 6mm toughened safety glass windows. The prototype POD measures 5.1m x 2.5m x 2.5m and weighs around 1000kg. One very cool feature is its ‘lifting lugs’ that allow it to be dropped into a remote area by aircraft. Who knows when that may come in handy?
Personally, I think the last one may be my favourite.
The company aims to provide both a compact and functional internal layout. This includes a club-style lounge/dinette that converts to a bed, a kitchenette and an internal ensuite. You’ll have it all in one tiny, UFO-looking pod.
Dreadnort Boats plan to offer their future customers POD’s in varying sizes and layouts. There will also be off-grid solutions on the horizon for those who prefer to harness the power of the sun on their adventures.
A Dreadnort POD prototype was featured at the 2022 Tiny House Expo in Auckland. If you’ve got the cash burning a hole in your pocket, you’ll have the opportunity to order one from the New Zealand boat manufacturer.
How much are you looking at exactly? Dreadnort Boats said on social media that the prototype as finished is currently priced at NZD $98,000 (AUD $91,095).
“We build to order (and the) price depends on layout and fit-out,” the company said.
It seems like New Zealand are the pioneers of quirky caravan and campers. You may remember the Romotow T8 caravan, valued at a staggering NZD $375,000 (AUD $348,581), which is more than triple the price of the UFO-inspired POD.
What will we see coming out of New Zealand next? Your guess is as good as mine!
