Meet Rosie and Rhys — transforming an LDV V80 into Hawke’s Bay’s biggest mobile physio van
Rosie and Rhys Norton had a bold idea: take physiotherapy out of the clinic and onto the road. Based in Hawke’s Bay, the couple wanted to launch a professional, fully equipped mobile service that could treat clients on-site — whether that was at a rural home, a local clubroom, or on the sidelines of a professional sports team’s training ground.
At 190 cm tall, Rhys knew a standard van wouldn’t cut it. They needed space, height, and clean design — so they chose one of the biggest base vehicles available: the LDV V80. What followed was a purpose-built van conversion that became one of the most capable mobile treatment vehicles in New Zealand.
Why a mobile physio van?
While Rosie and Rhys already ran a clinic, they saw a growing demand for flexibility. Their goal was to bring physiotherapy directly to people — to make services more accessible, and to support sports professionals in their own environment.
Their wishlist for the LDV V80 van conversion included:
• A full-size standing desk for admin and consults
• Clean, push-to-open cabinetry with no exposed handles
• Wipeable, hygienic surfaces throughout
• Storage for physio equipment
• A functional space to set up a massage table inside
Clean design, clinic-quality finish
Built around a central fold-down standing desk, the interior was designed to feel more like a modern clinic than a converted van. White-washed ply cabinetry with push-to-open drawers keeps things streamlined, while ACM wall linings and commercial-grade vinyl flooring ensure every surface is hygienic, hard-wearing, and easy to clean.
A padded bench seat offers additional storage beneath, and a cold-water handwashing sink was integrated into the cabinetry. To maintain privacy and warmth without blocking natural light, Rosie and Rhys opted for fitted cab-divider blinds instead of a solid wall — a thoughtful touch that elevates the overall feel of the van.
Power, lighting and flexibility
To keep laptops charged and lights running throughout the day, the van includes a 120 Ah battery system with a Projecta DC–DC charger, which tops up the power while driving between appointments. It’s an ideal setup for running a mobile office without needing constant access to shore power — perfect for rural clinics, sports grounds, or parked up at events.
Quick stats and specs
|
Item |
Spec |
|
Base vehicle |
LDV V80, high roof |
|
Layout |
Standing desk, padded bench seat, foldaway massage table space |
|
Cabinetry |
White-washed ply, push-to-open drawers |
|
Walls & floor |
ACM hygienic wall linings, commercial-grade vinyl flooring |
|
Water |
Cold-water handwashing sink built into cabinetry |
|
Power |
120 Ah battery, Projecta DC–DC charging system |
|
Extras |
MaxxFan roof vent, cab divider blinds, custom wooden entry steps |
“Huge thanks to @van.lifer for the amazing job on our LDV V80 conversion. We wanted something long-term, professional and comfortable — and honestly, the finish is beautiful. If you’re after a van or camper fit-out, we couldn’t recommend them more.” — RR Physio
Thinking about building your own LDV V80 van conversion for medical, wellness, or mobile business use? Start your journey with Vanlifer.