Pack your precious gear and ride across the endless plains.
Before you know it, that place has become your own "base"...
Have you ever dreamed of a trip like that?
Nowadays, it is common in New Zealand to customize pickup trucks as "mobile base camps," and Canopy is at the heart of this.
In fact, the names and styles vary from country to country, and knowing the background behind them will help you enjoy them even more.
In this article, we will introduce how canopies are used in New Zealand, including their names, styles, and actual uses.
What is a canopy? It's not just a box.
In a nutshell, it's a "box" that fits in the bed of a pickup truck.
However, in New Zealand, it has become a "mobile garage" and a "base for expanding your life."
An essential item for long-term outdoor trips and overlanding.
✔️ Large storage capacity
✔️ Protective space from the wind and rain
✔️ Suitable for car camping and base camping
We put a lot of effort into creating products to meet these needs.
The name varies by region
In New Zealand, the term "ute canopy " is common, but the names and styles vary depending on the country and culture, such as Australia and the United States.
|
How to call |
Main areas |
Nuance and meaning |
|
Canopy |
New Zealand / Australia |
A box-shaped storage space that can be attached to the bed of a pickup truck. Great for outdoor activities and work. |
|
Ute Canopy |
new zealand |
A canopy designed specifically for utility vehicles ( utes ). A partner for life and adventure. |
|
Tray Back |
Australia |
Flat loading area. Combine with a canopy to expand loading capacity. |
|
Service Body |
America |
A practical canopy primarily intended for transporting tools and materials. It is sturdy and is often used by professionals. |
|
Flatbed Canopy |
America |
A large canopy that can be placed on a flat loading platform. Used for overlanders and work vehicles. |
"Different names = different cultures"
The way each word is used and the way of thinking about it reflects the unique characteristics of that country, and the more you learn about it, the more fascinating it becomes.
New Zealand canopy culture
In New Zealand, canopies are "adventure companions."
They travel long distances to go surfing, trekking or fishing.
It is common to pack all of this into one vehicle and "stay overnight in it."
In fact, many people use it this way.
- Load up your surfboards and fishing gear and take a road trip along the coast
- Open the roof tent and sleep in the car at the foot of the mountain
- A kitchen built into the canopy for self-catering
- Equipped with solar panels and batteries, aiming for a self-sufficient lifestyle
Realistic custom examples
Without mentioning product names, be specific about the New Zealand style.
We will introduce some points that will help you travel!
-
Sliding storage
Keep your gear and utensils neatly organized and easily accessible -
20L to 40L water tank
Always available for hand washing, cooking, and simple showers -
LED Light and Power System
Work safely at night. Solar panel and sub-battery ensure power supply. -
Ladders and roof carriers
Easier access to the roof tent and increased loading capacity -
Recovery Kit
Essential equipment such as a shovel, tow rope, and air compressor
👉 "Simple is best" is the New Zealand way
It's important to balance functionality and lightness without making it too heavy.
A scene from an actual trip
Lake Wanaka on the South Island. We parked our car on the deserted lakeside.
I took out the coffee set from the canopy storage and boiled some water.
In the silence, the view that emerged as the fog cleared was beyond words.
At night, turn on the downlights and set up a table and chairs.
Enjoy some time alone around a bonfire under the starry sky.
This is truly a special experience that can only be achieved by having a "running base."
New Zealand's Canopy is not just a box on the back of a truck.
A mobile base camp that protects your important gear and lifestyle .
Why not find your own "base" and set off on your next journey?
Of course, don't forget to set up your FELDON SHELTER roof tent!
