I decided to go ahead with this. I can get a fresh from Japan low mileage
vehicle with guarantee, AA check and warrant of fitness for about NZ$6000.
Obviously I will sell the car at the end, but I know how to do, maybe not best price.
Rental for 5.5 months $5000+++. So we shall see.
esa-
Would appreciate a report on how it goes after trip finished. Both the purchase, and sale experience, and how the vehicle was for the trip.