RV Battery Charger: 10 Top Picks For Kiwi Motorhomes

When you’re halfway up the Coromandel or parked off-grid under the southern stars, the last thing you want is a flat battery bringing your adventure to a standstill. For Kiwi motorhome owners, a dependable RV battery charger isn’t just a convenience—it’s your ticket to freedom, safety, and comfort, wherever your journey takes you. With long distances between towns, unpredictable weather, and a thriving culture of freedom camping, New Zealand’s unique conditions put extra demands on your power system.

Whether you’re plugging in at a powered site, relying on your alternator while exploring remote roads, or topping up your batteries from solar on a bluebird day, the right charger is essential to keep your appliances running and your plans on track. The market offers a dizzying array of options: AC shore-power chargers, DC-DC chargers for alternator input, smart solar controllers, and clever all-in-one units. But not every device is built equal—especially if you want reliability, safety, and compatibility with the batteries found in New Zealand rigs.

Choosing the best RV battery charger isn’t just about wattage. For Kiwi motorhomers, factors like multi-input capability, charging current, support for different battery types (AGM, GEL, lithium and more), durable construction, compliance with NZ safety codes, environmental stewardship, and local availability all count. This guide sets out exactly what to look for—and why.

We’ve sifted through the options and narrowed the field to the 10 best battery chargers for New Zealand motorhomes, starting with the Action Outdoors Multi-Input Charger—a true all-rounder that streamlines charging from AC, DC, and solar in one tidy package. Each recommendation includes clear specs, practical pros and cons, and advice to help you match the right charger to your own travel style.

Ready to keep your adventures powered up? Use this article to compare features, weigh up your options, and find the perfect RV battery charger to suit your motorhome, your batteries, and your next Kiwi escape.

1. Multi-Input Battery Charger: Versatile Power Management for Kiwi Motorhomes (Action Outdoors)

Whether you’re plugged into shore power at a DOC campsite, topping up from your vehicle alternator on the move, or harvesting solar watts on a sun-drenched terrace, the Action Outdoors Multi-Input Battery Charger centralises all three charging sources into one neat unit. This all-rounder is designed for New Zealand motorhomes, putting AC, DC and solar inputs under a single user interface and ensuring you’ll never be stuck with a drained house battery.

Product Overview

The Multi-Input Battery Charger from Action Outdoors combines:

• 175–255 V AC shore-power charging
• 12.4–15 V DC input (alternator or DC-DC source)
• 12–29 V solar input via integrated MPPT

A removable LCD control panel gives you fingertip access to charge status, input selection and real-time voltage and current readings. All adjustments are made through a simple menu—no specialised tools or smartphone apps required.

Key Features

• Inputs: AC (175–255 V), DC (12.4–15 V), Solar (12–29 V)
• Removable backlit LCD screen with real-time data
• Automatic source prioritisation—shore power first, then alternator, then solar
• User-friendly interface with preset battery profiles
• IP22 rated aluminium housing for moisture and dust resistance

Supported Battery Types

This charger is fully programmable for:

• Sealed lead-acid (AGM, GEL)
• Flooded (wet cell)
• Calcium
  You can customise charge algorithms to suit each chemistry, ensuring optimal battery life whether you run traditional deep-cycle batteries or calcium-boosted banks.

Protection & Safety

Safety is built in at every level:

• Overcharge and overload shut-off
• High-temperature cut-back
• Reverse-polarity and short-circuit protection
• Auto-restart after fault clearance
  All protection mechanisms comply with NZ safety standards, giving you peace of mind in remote camping scenarios.

Technical Specifications

• Output current: 30 A (AC mode), 40 A (DC mode)
• Solar charger max: 20 A via MPPT
• Compact footprint: approx. 280 × 180 × 90 mm
• Weight: ~2.8 kg
• Operating temperature: –20 °C to +60 °C
• Mounting: bulkhead or DIN-rail compatible

Where to Buy & Price

You can order directly from Action Outdoors with flat-rate shipping across New Zealand. Retail price starts at NZD 749.00.
Find full details and place your order here: Action Outdoors Multi-Input Battery Charger

2. Enerdrive DC-DC Charger: Efficient On-the-Move Alternator Charging

When you’re cruising along State Highway 1 or winding up a back-country track, relying solely on your shore-power charger isn’t an option. Enerdrive’s DC-DC charger taps directly into your vehicle’s alternator to deliver a consistent, managed charge to your house batteries while you drive. This ensures your leisure battery bank remains topped up—even when engine revs fluctuate—and avoids the risk of under-charging or damaging delicate battery chemistries.

Overview

A DC-DC charger is like a smart intermediary between your vehicle’s alternator and your leisure batteries. Instead of wiring the alternator straight to your battery bank, the Enerdrive unit regulates voltage and current through a multi-stage charging algorithm. That means your batteries receive the correct charge profile every time, regardless of engine speed or alternator output. It’s particularly useful for motorhomes fitted with lithium-ion packs, where precise voltage control is vital.

Key Benefits

• Stable charging at any RPM: Maintains optimal current even at idle or high revs.
• Built-in voltage regulation: Protects batteries from over-voltage and ensures each cell receives the right charge.
• Multi-stage charging: Bulk, absorption and float phases maximise battery health and longevity.
• Temperature compensation: Adjusts charge rates in extreme heat or cold, keeping batteries in top condition.
• Battery health monitoring: Some models offer a digital display or wireless app to track charge progress and battery status.

Charging Capacity

Enerdrive DC-DC chargers typically deliver between 20 A and 30 A of output current, depending on the model. They accept a wide input voltage range (roughly 12–16 V from the alternator) and convert it into a stable 14.4–14.8 V output. This capability makes them suitable for both small AGM banks and higher-capacity lithium systems up to 300 Ah or more.

Installation Requirements

Installing an Enerdrive DC-DC charger requires:

• Adequate wiring: Use marine-grade cables sized to handle both input and output currents—commonly 8 AWG or larger.
• Solid mounting: Secure the charger away from moisture and direct heat sources, ideally in a well-ventilated compartment.
• Proper grounding: Ensure all negative connections share a common earth point with the vehicle chassis.
• Ventilation clearance: Leave around 50 mm of space on each side for airflow and heat dissipation.

Ideal Use Cases

• Long day drives where shore-power is unavailable.
• Adventures across remote regions or alpine passes.
• Motorhomes with high-drain lithium batteries needing precise charging.
• Travellers who prefer topping up on the move rather than stopping at campsites.

By integrating an Enerdrive DC-DC charger into your motorhome, you gain peace of mind that every kilometre adds a few more volts to your battery bank—keeping lights, fridges and electronics humming long after your engine’s been switched off.

3. Dometic MultiPlus Compact Inverter/Charger: All-in-One Shore Power & Inverter

Combining inverter and charger under one roof, the Dometic MultiPlus Compact is designed to switch seamlessly between shore-power charging and inverter supply. Perfect for motorhomes that require both reliable 12 V battery top-ups at campgrounds and 230 V AC power for household appliances off-grid, it keeps your system lean without sacrificing performance.

Product Overview

The MultiPlus Compact integrates:

• A 230 V AC to 12 V DC charger (shore-power mode)
• A 12 V DC to 230 V AC inverter (off-grid mode)
• A built-in transfer switch that toggles in milliseconds when you lose—or regain—mains power

This clever switch-over means lights, microwaves or even your coffee maker continue running without a hitch if you unplug from shore-power or fire up the engine.

Inverter vs Charger Functions

• Charger mode: Converts incoming AC (175–265 V) into a multi-stage 12 V DC charge, supporting bulk, absorption and float phases to suit AGM, GEL, flooded or lithium batteries.
• Inverter mode: Delivers pure sine-wave 230 V AC at a continuous rating, ensuring sensitive electronics and appliances run smoothly.

You can prioritise charging when parked up, then switch to inversion at the touch of a button—or let the unit do it automatically when shore-power disappears.

Performance Specifications

• Inverter rating: 1000 W continuous, 2000 W peak surge
• Charge current: Up to 30 A in shore-power mode
• Efficiency: Approximately 90% in inverter mode, minimising energy loss
• Noise level: Around 45 dB under load—quiet enough for most camper-van interiors
• Dimensions: 320 × 180 × 105 mm
• Weight: 4.2 kg

These figures strike a balance between compact installation and the muscle needed to run fridges, pumps or laptops off-grid.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Space-saving “all-in-one” design reduces cabinet clutter
• Seamless transfer switch keeps appliances powered without interruption
• Pure sine-wave output protects sensitive electronics

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to a standalone charger or inverter
• Generates heat under heavy load—requires good ventilation
• At 4.2 kg, it’s heavier than many single-function units

Recommended For

If your motorhome adventure mixes powered campsites with off-grid excursions, and you need to run kitchen appliances, TVs or power tools from your battery bank, the MultiPlus Compact is an excellent match. It’s especially suited to smaller rigs where space is at a premium but reliable, uninterrupted power is non-negotiable.

4. CTEK D250SA Dual Input Charger: Smart Solar & Alternator Integration

Balancing alternator charging with solar input can be tricky without the right hardware. The CTEK D250SA tackles this head-on by combining two DC inputs—one from your vehicle’s alternator and one from roof-mounted solar panels—into a single, streamlined charger. Its integrated MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controller ensures that every available watt of solar energy is harvested efficiently, while the alternator feed guarantees a reliable top-up whenever the engine runs.

Detailed Overview

The D250SA accepts 12–15 V DC from an alternator and 12–35 V DC from solar panels, feeding both sources through a smart control unit. Internally, an MPPT controller optimises the solar array’s output, dynamically adjusting voltage and current to match the battery’s charging needs. A single heavy-duty enclosure houses all electronics, simplifying installation and reducing the number of components under your bonnet or in your battery compartment.

Intelligent Charging Modes

CTEK’s eight-step charging algorithm is at the heart of the D250SA. It delivers bulk, absorption and float phases, plus an additional reconditioning mode for sulphated batteries. The charger automatically selects the best available source—shore-power via an auxiliary DC-DC converter, alternator or solar—switching seamlessly to maintain the ideal charge profile. Customisable settings let you dial in the correct mode for AGM, GEL, flooded or calcium-enhanced batteries, ensuring longevity and peak performance.

Technical Specifications

• Solar MPPT input range: 12–35 V DC, up to 400 W
• Alternator input range: 12–15 V DC, up to 20 A
• Maximum charge current: 20 A
• Dimensions: 192 × 118 × 55 mm
• Weight: 0.8 kg
• Operating temperature: –20 °C to +50 °C
• IP65-rated housing for dust and splash protection

Best Use Cases

This dual-input charger shines on motorhomes that carry a substantial solar array but still rely on engine-driven alternator charging during long drives. If you freedom-camp for weeks at a time or explore regions with variable sunlight—think Fiordland valleys or Central Otago winter days—the D250SA’s ability to juggle power sources keeps your house batteries topped up without manual intervention.

External Reference

For a deeper dive into the D250SA’s features and installation tips, visit CTEK’s official motorhome battery charger guide: CTEK Motorhome Battery Charger

5. PowerTech Multi-Stage Battery Charger: Simple & Affordable

For those who primarily rely on campground power and don’t need alternator or solar inputs, the PowerTech Multi-Stage Battery Charger offers a straightforward, budget-friendly solution. It concentrates on delivering an intelligent AC-to-12 V charge, using a proven multi-stage algorithm to support common deep-cycle battery types without unnecessary bells and whistles.

Overview

The PowerTech unit is an entry-level charger engineered to make shore-power charging as hands-off as possible. Housed in a compact, ventilated casing, it’s designed to sit near your battery bank or fusebox, plugged directly into a 230 V AC supply. With LED indicators and a single mode button, it’s easy to operate even for first-time motorhomers.

Charging Algorithm

PowerTech employs a four-stage charging cycle:

1. Bulk: Rapidly delivers maximum current until the battery reaches its absorption voltage
2. Absorption: Holds voltage steady to fully charge each cell without over-gassing
3. Float: Drops to a lower voltage to maintain full charge without overloading
4. Maintenance: Monitors battery voltage and applies periodic top-up pulses to prevent self-discharge

This sequence suits AGM, GEL and flooded-cell (wet) deep-cycle batteries, and automatically switches between stages based on voltage and charge time. A simple dial lets you select the correct profile for your battery chemistry.

Input/Output Specifications

• AC input: 230 V ± 10%, 50 Hz
• DC output: 12 V at 15 A (max)
• Efficiency: ~85% at full load
• Dimensions: 220 × 120 × 60 mm
• Weight: 1.1 kg
• Operating temperature: –10 °C to +50 °C

These specifications make it a reliable option for small to medium battery banks (up to ~200 Ah) where high-current charging isn’t a priority.

Advantages & Limitations

Advantages:

• Cost-effective entry-level price point
• Automatic multi-stage charging extends battery life
• Simple setup and operation with minimal maintenance

Limitations:

• No DC-DC input for alternator charging
• Lacks MPPT solar controller—solar panels require a separate regulator
• Fixed 15 A output may be slow for larger battery banks

If you don’t need on-the-move or solar charging, the PowerTech charger delivers all the essentials at a very accessible price.

Best For

The PowerTech Multi-Stage Battery Charger is ideal for:

• Casual campers who visit powered sites most of the time
• Weekend motorhome users with smaller battery banks
• Budget-conscious buyers looking for reliable shore-power charging
• Those who prefer plug-and-play simplicity over advanced features

Its straightforward design and automatic charge cycle make it a solid choice for anyone seeking dependable mains-powered battery charging without the complexity of multi-input systems.

6. Schumacher SC1349 Multi-Stage Smart Charger: Precision Charging

When you need a reliable trickle or float charger for smaller battery banks—or simply want to keep your house batteries in top shape during winter storage—the Schumacher SC1349 delivers precise, microprocessor-controlled charging in a compact package. Its smart features help revive mildly sulphated batteries and maintain them at optimal voltage without risk of overcharging, making it a handy tool both on the road and in the garage.

Product Overview

The SC1349 uses built-in microprocessor logic to monitor battery voltage and automatically adjust charging stages. Compatible with any 12 V lead-acid battery (AGM, GEL, flooded), it switches seamlessly between bulk, absorption, and float modes. A dedicated “desulphation” phase applies controlled pulses to dissolve lead-sulphate crystals, helping to restore capacity in under-used batteries.

Key Features

• Desulphation Mode: Applies high-voltage pulses to break down sulphate buildup
• Temperature Compensation: Adjusts charge voltage based on ambient temperature for safe charging in hot or cold conditions
• Float & Maintenance: Automatically drops to a low float voltage once the battery is full, then switches to periodic top-up pulses
• LED Status Indicators: Shows charging phase and alerts you to faults such as reverse polarity or a bad battery
• Safety Protections: Built-in reverse-polarity, spark-proof connections, and overload protection

Technical Data

• Output current: 2 A (maintenance) to 10 A (bulk charge)
• Input: 230 V AC, 50 Hz
• Battery compatibility: 12 V lead-acid types up to 120 Ah for full charge, unlimited for float maintenance
• Lead length: 1.8 m power cord; 1.2 m battery leads with heavy-duty clamps
• Dimensions: 180 × 100 × 60 mm
• Weight: 0.9 kg

Installation & Portability

The SC1349’s lightweight design and compact footprint make it simple to store when not in use. You can choose between the sturdy alligator clamps for quick hook-up to battery posts or remove them and attach optional ring-terminals (sold separately) for a more permanent installation. Its integrated handle doubles as a hanging hook, so you can stow it on a toolkit pegboard or bracket inside your motorhome’s locker.

Ideal Users

This charger is perfect for:

• Small campervans or caravans with modest battery banks
• Seasonal storage where batteries need regular desulphation and float maintenance
• Owners who prefer a “set-and-forget” solution to keep batteries topped up without manual intervention
• Anyone looking to revive or extend the life of an older or lightly used 12 V battery

If you’re after precision charging and simple operation for smaller battery systems, the Schumacher SC1349 offers reliable performance without breaking the bank.

7. PowerTrain Heavy-Duty 40 A Charger: Rapid Bulk Charging for Large Banks

Big battery banks need big chargers—and the PowerTrain Heavy-Duty 40 A Charger is built to deliver. Tailored for sizeable motorhome setups with multiple leisure batteries or lithium banks, this unit focuses on rapid bulk charging, then gently transitions to maintenance mode. Its solid construction and smart charging logic make it a dependable workhorse for anyone powering extensive onboard appliances, from air conditioning units to microwave ovens.

Product Description

The PowerTrain Heavy-Duty Charger is a purpose-built multi-stage battery charger capable of handling up to 40 A of charge current. Housed in a rugged, ventilated case, it’s designed for continuous operation in challenging environments. Heavy-gauge terminals and an intuitive LED display show you at a glance which charging phase is active, while the unit’s fan-cooled interior ensures stable performance even under heavy load.

Charging Profile

This charger uses an intelligent three-stage cycle:

• Bulk: Delivers the full 40 A at a controlled voltage until batteries reach 80–90% capacity.
• Absorption: Holds a steady voltage to trickle batteries up to 100% without gassing.
• Float: Lowers voltage to a safe maintenance level, preventing overcharge and self-discharge.

Smart detection automatically switches between stages based on real-time voltage and current feedback, keeping batteries in optimal condition without manual intervention.

Battery Compatibility

Whether you’re running traditional flooded batteries or more modern chemistries, the PowerTrain 40 A Charger has you covered:

• Flooded (wet cell)
• AGM
• GEL

Some models even offer a dedicated lithium-ion profile, adjusting charge parameters to suit LiFePO₄ banks. Be sure to consult the manual for exact programming steps when using lithium systems to ensure full compatibility and safety.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• High 40 A output slashes bulk-charge times for large banks
• Robust build with active cooling for sustained operation
• Automatic multi-stage profile protects battery health

Cons:

• Larger footprint and heavier weight compared to entry-level chargers
• Higher price point reflects its performance and construction
• Fan noise can be noticeable in quiet motorhome compartments

Who Should Consider It

Motorhome owners with extensive power demands—think large air conditioners, induction cooktops or multiple 12 V fridges—will benefit most from the PowerTrain Heavy-Duty 40 A Charger. If your battery bank exceeds 300 Ah or you frequently deplete batteries on off-grid trips, this charger’s rapid bulk phase will help you top up quickly at a powered site, minimising downtime and keeping adventures rolling.

8. RecPro 55 A Converter & Charger: Integrated Power Converter

When your motorhome’s 12 V appliances and batteries both need reliable DC power from shore supply, an integrated converter–charger makes life simpler. The RecPro 55 A Converter & Charger merges a line-interactive DC distribution module and a 55 A battery charger into one rugged enclosure. Instead of separate units for powering lights, pumps and USB sockets while maintaining battery health, this all-in-one solution handles both tasks with minimal fuss and wiring.

Overview

The RecPro unit accepts 175–265 V AC mains power and delivers a stable 12 V DC bus to your on-board circuits—acting as a converter to run appliances directly from shore power. Simultaneously, it diverts up to 55 A of that DC output into your house battery bank, automatically switching between “load” and “charge” modes. A built-in transfer relay ensures that, in the event of a power cut, your batteries instantly take over supply without interruption to 12 V systems.

Integrated Functionality

By combining converter and charger functions, RecPro simplifies installation and reduces cabinet clutter. Key features include:

• Automatic load-sharing: Batteries and shore-power share the DC load proportionally.
• Smart charge algorithm: Bulk, absorption and float phases tailored for lead-acid and AGM batteries.
• Relay-driven seamless transfer: No flicker or reboot of 12 V devices when shore-power drops.
• Status LEDs: Quick diagnostics for “power on”, “charging”, “mode” and fault conditions.

This synergy means fewer individual components, less wiring complexity and a single point of service for both DC distribution and battery maintenance.

Technical Specifications

• AC input: 175–265 V AC, 50–60 Hz
• DC output ( charger ): 12 V DC at 55 A maximum charge current
• DC output (converter): 12 V DC at 30 A continuous for on-board loads
• Efficiency: ~88% in converter mode
• Cooling: Thermostatically controlled fan with rear exhaust
• Dimensions: 300 × 200 × 80 mm (approx.)
• Weight: ~3.5 kg
• Operating temperature: –10 °C to +50 °C
• Enclosure rating: IP20 (indoor marine/vehicle use)

Installation Tips

To get the best performance and longevity from your RecPro converter–charger:

• Mount on a vertical surface with at least 50 mm clearance all around for airflow.
• Keep the fan intake free from dust and fibres—avoid mounting in carpeted lockers.
• Use marine-grade 6 mm² (8 AWG) cabling for both converter output and battery charge leads.
• Bond all negatives to a single earth point on the chassis to prevent ground loops.
• Route AC wiring separately from DC cables to minimise electromagnetic interference with sensitive electronics.

Suitable Motorhome Sizes

The RecPro 55 A unit is a natural fit for mid-sized motorhomes and caravans—those running a handful of 12 V fridges, LED lighting circuits, water pumps and USB outlets. If your rig has a battery bank between 100 Ah and 300 Ah and you regularly stay on powered campsites for several nights, this integrated converter–charger strikes the right balance of output capacity and footprint. It keeps your living space neat while ensuring both your appliances and batteries stay fully energised.

9. NOCO GENIUS2D Smart Charger: Compact, Intelligent & Safe

For motorhome owners who need a simple, reliable trickle charger and maintainer, the NOCO GENIUS2D packs smart charging technology into an ultra-compact unit. It’s perfect for seasonal use, long storage periods or keeping a small leisure battery topped up between trips. Despite its diminutive size, this charger delivers a full suite of safety and battery-care features, making it a go-to for Kiwi campers who value convenience and protection.

Product Overview

The NOCO GENIUS2D is a two-amp, microprocessor-controlled charger and maintainer. At just over 200 g, it slips easily into a glovebox or tool locker. The rugged, weather-resistant housing and durable cables stand up to outdoor use, while the simple two-button interface guides you through selecting your battery type and starting the charge cycle. LED indicators display charging mode, progress and fault conditions.

Smart Charging Features

Under the hood, the Genius2D uses a multi-stage charging algorithm to maximise battery life and performance. Key functions include:

• Pulse Repair Mode: Breaks down light sulphation to help revive older batteries.
• Temperature Compensation: Adjusts voltage automatically in hot or cold conditions, preserving charge quality.
• Auto-Restart: Resumes charging after power interruptions or reconnections, so you don’t have to monitor it constantly.
• Reverse-Polarity & Spark-Proof Protection: Prevents damage if clamps are swapped or connected to a discharged battery.

Battery Compatibility

This charger supports most 12 V lead-acid chemistries, including:

• Flooded (wet cell)
• AGM
• GEL
• Maintenance-free sealed batteries
  It’s not designed for high-capacity banks, but its gentle two-amp output is ideal for smaller packs up to around 50 Ah, ensuring they remain in peak condition.

Advantages & Limitations

Advantages:

• Extremely portable and lightweight
• Fully automatic “set-and-forget” operation
• Comprehensive safety protections for worry-free use
• Pulse repair to extend battery life

Limitations:

• Low 2 A output means longer charge times for larger batteries
• Not suitable as primary charger for big battery banks or rapid recharge needs
• No DC-DC or solar input; AC shore power only

Recommended For

The NOCO GENIUS2D is best for:

• Seasonal maintenance of a motorhome’s starter or auxiliary battery
• Off-season storage to prevent self-discharge and sulphation
• Casual campers with small leisure batteries (up to ~50 Ah)
• Anyone who wants a grab-and-go charger to keep in their kit for emergency top-ups

If you’re after a fuss-free maintainer to prolong battery life during storage or occasional use, the Genius2D offers smart charging features in a package that feels more like a phone charger than a workshop unit.

10. BMPRO 25 A Battery Charger: Reliable Multi-Stage Performance

Mid-sized motorhomes and caravanners often need a charger that delivers solid performance without stretching the budget. The BMPRO 25 A Battery Charger fits the bill: it’s a no-nonsense, automatic multi-stage charger built to top up 12 V battery banks efficiently, then switch to maintenance mode until your next trip.

Product Overview

The BMPRO 25 A charger uses an intelligent microprocessor to tailor charging to your battery’s needs. It monitors voltage and current in real time, automatically cycling through bulk, absorption and float phases. A simple LED display keeps you informed of the charging stage and flags any fault conditions, while front-mounted terminals handle both ring-terminal and clamp connections.

Charging Process

BMPRO’s charging algorithm comprises three primary stages:

• Bulk: Supplies the maximum 25 A current to quickly raise battery voltage close to its absorption threshold.
• Absorption: Holds voltage steady, allowing current to taper off as the battery fills without over-gassing.
• Float: Reduces voltage to a safe maintenance level, preventing under-charge and self-discharge over extended periods.

Selectable modes for AGM, GEL or flooded lead-acid chemistries ensure each battery type receives the optimal voltage profile. Once full, the charger drops back into float automatically, so there’s no risk of overcharging.

Technical Specifications

• AC input: 230 V ± 10%, 50 Hz
• DC output: 12 V at 25 A maximum
• Suitable battery capacity: Up to 300 Ah
• Efficiency: ~87% at full load
• Dimensions: 250 × 150 × 70 mm
• Weight: 1.6 kg
• Operating temperature: –10 °C to +45 °C
• Protection: Reverse-polarity, overheat and short-circuit shut-down

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Fast 25 A bulk-charge for mid-range battery banks
• True multi-stage algorithm preserves battery health
• Compact and relatively lightweight for easy installation
• Automatic float mode for long-term maintenance

Cons:

• No DC-DC or solar inputs—shore power only
• Fixed output may be slow on very large banks (> 300 Ah)
• Lacks a digital display for precise voltage/current read-out

Ideal Use Cases

The BMPRO 25 A charger is a strong match for:

• Full-time campers and caravanners who spend most nights at powered sites
• Motorhomes with battery banks up to 300 Ah needing a balance of speed and affordability
• Owners seeking a straightforward plug-and-play AC solution without extra DC or solar functionality
• Anyone wanting a reliable maintenance mode to keep house batteries topped up between trips

With its blend of performance, simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the BMPRO 25 A Battery Charger is a dependable choice for keeping your 12 V system ready for the next Kiwi adventure.

11. NZ Electrical Code & Safety Requirements for RV Battery Charging Systems

Installing or upgrading an RV battery charging system isn’t just a matter of picking the right hardware—it also means adhering to New Zealand’s electrical regulations. Compliance ensures your installation is safe, reduces the risk of fire or electric shock and satisfies insurance and warranty conditions. The following subsections summarise the key legal requirements and pathways to certification.

Mandatory Standards

All RV electrical work must comply with two principal standards:

• AS/NZS 3000:2007 (Wiring Rules)
  Defines general electrical installation requirements, including conductor sizing, protective devices and earthing. Even portable or mobile installations in motorhomes must meet these wiring parameters if they connect to shore power or alternator circuits.
• AS/NZS 3001:2008 (Electrical Installations—Caravans and Motorhomes)
  Supplements AS/NZS 3000 with rules specific to vehicles. It covers onboard distribution boards, socket outlets, isolation requirements and the safe integration of chargers, inverters and battery banks in a mobile environment.

Together, these standards ensure your charging equipment, cabling and protection devices are selected and installed to a uniform safety benchmark.

Warrant of Electrical Fitness (WoEF)

A Warrant of Electrical Fitness (WoEF) is mandatory for any fixed wiring work on a motorhome or caravan.

• Purpose: Confirms that the installation complies with the above standards and is free from defects likely to cause danger.
• Validity: Four years for recreational vehicles, after which a re-inspection is needed.
• Issuer: An approved inspection authority (such as WorkSafe-accredited firms) issues the WoEF once they have tested and signed off on your installation.

Without a current WoEF, you risk voiding insurance or rental agreements—and you may be fined for non-compliance.

Prescribed Work

Under New Zealand law, most wiring work on an RV—including installing battery chargers, inverters or new electrical circuits—is classified as “prescribed work.” This means:

• It must be carried out by a licensed electrician registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB).
• The electrician must follow the wiring rules and standards above, use approved materials and file the necessary work records.

Attempting DIY prescribed work is illegal and can lead to prosecution, not to mention serious safety hazards.

Ensuring Electrically Safe Installations

After installation, a series of checks and tests must be performed:

1. Insulation Resistance Test: Verifies that cables and devices are properly insulated.
2. Polarity and Continuity Tests: Confirms correct wiring of live, neutral and earth conductors.
3. RCD/Breaker Function Test: Ensures protective devices trip at the specified fault currents.

All results are documented in the electrician’s test report, which forms part of the WoEF submission. Regular visual inspections—checking for corrosion at terminals, secure cable runs and undamaged insulation—help maintain safety over time.

External Reference

For comprehensive guidance on electrical and gas safety requirements for caravan, motorhome and marine installations, visit WorkSafe NZ:
https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/energy-safety/electrical-and-gas-safety-requirements-for-caravan-motorhome-and-boating/

12. Environmental & Recycling Considerations for RV Batteries in New Zealand

Keen RV owners know that while batteries keep the lights on and fridges cold, they can pose a significant environmental hazard if sent to landfill. Whether you’re running lead-acid, AGM or lithium-ion packs, New Zealand law and best-practice guidelines mean each chemistry must be handled correctly at end-of-life. Here’s how to make sure your spent batteries don’t become an ecological problem.

Priority Products & Stewardship Schemes

Under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008, all “large batteries” (over 1 kg) are designated Priority Products. Importers and producers must join an accredited product stewardship scheme or demonstrate an approved alternative plan. These schemes fund and organise take-back networks, transport and recycling, so your old batteries are diverted from rubbish bins straight into specialist processing.

Roles & Responsibilities

If you sell or import RV batteries, you’re legally obliged to participate in a recognised stewardship programme. Retailers must accept used batteries for free and declare sales volumes to the scheme operator. As a motorhome owner, your part is simple: return spent batteries to the shop you bought them from or drop them at a designated collection centre—never toss them in your kerbside rubbish.

End-of-Life Management

Lead-acid batteries are highly recyclable: recovered lead is melted down for new batteries, acid is neutralised, and plastics are reformed. Lithium-ion packs, common in solar-equipped vans, need careful dismantling to reclaim materials like lithium, cobalt and aluminium. Only a handful of licensed recyclers in New Zealand can safely process Li-ion batteries, so always check with your stewardship scheme for approved drop-off points or collection services.

Reducing Environmental Impact

Give your batteries the best chance of a long life with basic upkeep: clean and tighten terminals, avoid discharging below recommended depths and store them in a cool, dry spot when not in use. Using a smart charger or MPPT solar controller prevents over-charging and sulphation. Before recycling, consider a second-life application—such as stationary energy storage at home—which can delay disposal and lower demand for new raw materials.

External Reference

For further details on product stewardship obligations and responsible battery disposal in New Zealand, visit the Ministry for the Environment’s guidance:
https://environment.govt.nz/waste/product-stewardship-responsible-product-management/

Powering Your Journey: Next Steps

Choosing the right RV battery charger is more than checking off technical specifications—it means finding a solution that matches your motorhome’s battery chemistry, capacity and the way you travel. Whether you’re parked at a powered DOC site, topping up on the move or harvesting solar energy off-grid, it’s vital to pair the right charger with your leisure battery bank. Consider the charging inputs you need (AC, DC-DC, solar), the current output that suits your battery size, and the safety features that comply with New Zealand standards.

Take a moment to revisit the ten chargers we’ve covered. Compare their inputs, outputs and installation requirements against your typical camping style. If you’re a freedom camper chasing remote horizons, a multi-input unit or DC-DC charger might be indispensable. For those who spend most nights on powered sites, a shore-power-only multi-stage charger could be all you need. And if battery maintenance during storage is top of your list, a compact smart maintainer will keep your pack in peak condition.

Ready to find the perfect match? Head over to the Action Outdoors homepage to explore our full range of RV charging solutions and get personalised advice from our outdoor specialists. With the right charger on board, you can focus on the open road, confident that your batteries will keep pace with every Kiwi adventure.