The family behind the first luxury caravan ever built

Nationwide RV is owned and operated by Bob Gordon Stables.  His passion for experiencing the outdoors in motorhomes and caravans stems back three generations.  Bob's Great Grandfather, Dr William Gordon Stables, designed the worlds first ever luxury liesure caravan in Twyford, England in the late 1800s.  As a doctor of medicine, the Doctor firmly believed that "those in search of health and wholeness will find, in the pleasure of caravanning, that perfect rest and freedom from all the care which is so calming to shattered nerves, weary brains and aching hearts."

In 1885 Bob's Great Grandfather went on a 1,300 mile tour in his famous caravan named Wanderer, from England to Scotland.  After this journey, he made it a priority to go on an advernture in his horse-drawn Wanderer every year for the rest of his life.

Dr Gordon Stables' design concept was "a traveller's dream of home".  It was made of the best mahogony, lined with maple and adorned with black and gold mouldings.  The wheels and underworks were painted dark chocolate.  It is now restored and housed at the UK motorhome associations property in Broadway, Worcestershire.

It has been described as being "over-furnished cosiness", with every comfort of home conceivable.  His design reflected his nature of both practical and romantic.  He had a piano stool, a place for his violin, flute and other instruments as well as curtains which when open, created a cosy lounge area, but when drawn created a romantic bedroom.

Richard (Dr Gordon-Stables’ grandson) started building caravans in New Plymouth after returning from second world war. He built several caravans over the next ten years while farming. He proudly towed his hand built caravan all over New Zealand with a 39 Ford Mercury and 9 family members. He is a true traveller in every sense like his grandfather whom he unfortunately never met.

Our motorhomes, today's version of the Doctor's caravan, continues to serve those wanting to obtain freedom, take adventures or get some much needed rest from modern day stressors.  They are purpose-designed to suit our New Zealand terrain, temperatures and road conditions.  We have various designs to accommodate single traveller's as well as for groups and families.

For more information on the Doctor's caravan, visit Wikipedia or Google Search Dr William Gordon Stables.